Music Box
Artist: Charles Bruguier the Elder (Swiss, 1788 - 1862)
Date: late 19th century
Dimensions:
H: 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm); W: 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm); D: 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm)
Medium: Metal and enamel; Engraved metal, inlaid with enamel
Place of Origin: Switzerland
Classification: Metalwork
Credit Line: Gift of Florence Scott Libbey
Object number: 1933.168
Label Text:This decorative box with a mechanical singing bird is a form developed by Swiss watchmakers in the late 1700s. These watchmakers perfected miniature automata, utilizing ingenious design, intricate machinery, and bellows to create a dazzling combination of art, music, and technology. When the box is wound, the oval plaque on top pops open and a tiny bird emerges, whirling around as it flaps its wings, turns its head, and clacks its beak while singing a trilling song. The metal bird is covered in real feathers from South American hummingbirds.
DescriptionSmall bird on spring released by catch; Music box
On view
In Collection(s)