Fabergé, Gold Boxes, Vertu & Imperial Works of Art

A silver singing bird automaton in the shape of an elephant, German, late 19th century

Restricted Species

Auction Closed

November 28, 05:26 PM GMT

Estimate

12,000 - 18,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

in the shape of a friendly elephant, the back inset with an oval silver panel above an inset inner plaque chased with a musical trophy, to be opened by gently pushing the elephant's right ear and revealing a feathered bird, opening and closing its metal beak and flapping the wings while singing and turning from side to side,

German post-1884 crown and crescent moon marks, further struck: 800, with an associated winder

15.5cm., 6 1/8 in. high, 30.5cm., 12 in. wide

This lot contains endangered species. Sotheby's recommends that buyers check with their own government regarding any importation requirements prior to placing a bid. For example, US regulations restrict or prohibit the import of certain items to protect wildlife conservation. Please note that Sotheby's will not assist buyers with the shipment of this lot to the US. A buyer's inability to export or import these lots cannot justify a delay in payment or sale cancellation.