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Automaton singing bird by Bontems

About the Item

Unique flower pot with singing bird automaton made by Bontems in the last quarter of the 19th century. Bontems was a manufacturer of bird automatons in Paris. He produced decent numbers of singing bird boxes, singing bird cages. The flower pot with a singing bird were not produced as many, and even fewer have survived the hundred years of history. The porcelain flower pot is in excellent condition and without damage. The mechanism, which is hidden inside the porcelain pot, works fine. After one starts the bird, it sings a happy tune while turning its head, moving its beak and tail. Every now and then, the bird pauses indicating the excellent condition of the bellows. On the right side of the flowerpot there is a hole for the winding key, at the bottom the mechanism is screwed on. Very exceptional piece, very decorative and valuable
  • Creator:
    Bontems (Manufacturer)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 20.87 in (53 cm)Width: 10.63 in (27 cm)Depth: 8.67 in (22 cm)
  • Style:
    Late Victorian (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Feathers,Gold Plate,Metal,Other,Wood,Cast,Gilt,Metalwork,Other
  • Place of Origin:
    France
  • Period:
    Late 19th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Ca 1870-1890
  • Condition:
    Repaired: This one has been restored to it's original beauty by a proffessional workshop who is specialised in autoamatons and singing birds. It has been done to make sure it will work for another 100years. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. The case is in excelent condition with the original gilding. The mechanisme has proffessionlly been restored to the original condition making this one sure to be enjouyed for another 100years. Our workshop is specialiced in music boxes and automatons.
  • Seller Location:
    Zonhoven, BE
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 7531stDibs: LU9250237651462

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