Lot 151
  • 151

German

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • AN UNUSUAL SILVER SINGING BIRD BOX AND A GILT METAL AND ENAMEL SINGING BIRD BOX MID 20TH CENTURY
  • gilt, silver, enamel
  • the first: length 12 cm; the second: length 10 cm
the first: rectangular, hinged sides, concealing glazed panels offering a full view of the movement, the case engraved overall with scrolls, raised engraved lid concealing the singing bird, which rises from a bird-form reserve, with original instruction sheet for operation of the bird • the second: shaped rectangular case, the top with midnight blue enamel quartered by polychrome enamel floral sprays, the lid concealing the singing bird polychrome enamel with a village scene, each case stamped with maker's mark EB

Provenance

Frances Klein, Beverly Hills

Condition

Both birds will require restoration, the bird on the silver box will require complete refeathering, nearly all the feathers are now gone, otherwise the silver box is quite amusing with its hinged panels to reveal glazed windows to allow one to observe the mechanism of the box; the second box with some enamel restoration at the edges of top panel. The quality of the enamel is not high which is due to the time period it was made.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."