Swiss Early 20th-Century Double Singing Bird Cage Automaton
A delightful gem of antique automata, singing birds never fail to captivate. This charming early 20th-century Swiss example features two mechanically activated singing birds. A key-wound and spring-driven clockwork mechanism in the base brings the lovely animals to life. With a flick of a switch, the two colorful birds begin their melody, turning their heads, moving their beaks, and wiggling their tail feathers in time with their song. The birds reside within a domed circular brass cage embossed with a floral and scrollwork motif.
Singing birds remain among the most coveted and complex forms of automata. These incredible mechanical marvels feature a series of cams and levers to control the movement, combined with bellows to push air through slide whistles and create a realistic birdsong.
This enchanting automaton has been fully restored and carries a one-year warranty.
11″ High x 6-1/2″ Diameter
Early 20th Century