Swiss Enameled Singing Bird Box by Reuge
This enchanting Swiss singing bird automaton is a delight for the senses. Dating to the 1980s and crafted by Reuge of St. Croix, a colorful bird emerges from the box to sing a delightful tune with the flip of a switch. Fashioned with real feathers, the charming figure moves its wings and beak while rotating side to side. The bird sits perched atop a gilt filigree platform and performs its song against the backdrop of a gilt oval lid. The automaton resides in a beautifully enameled case with a colorful scene on the front, back, and lid.
Singing bird boxes are among the most challenging automata to execute. To bring this beautiful automaton to life, an intricate system of cams, levers, and sliding whistles must be masterfully handcrafted into a compact space. Bird boxes remain some of the most collectible automata pieces, prized for their fine artistry and advanced mechanical skill.
A spring-wound clockwork mechanism drives this delightful automation, which bears a complete restoration and a one-year warranty.
Circa 1980
Original Price: $4,500