2396 - Songbird Music Box by Jacques Bruguier

Songbird Music Box by Jacques Bruguier Geneva, ca. 1860. 10 x 6.5 x 3.4 cm. 401 g. Brass/silver, gold-plated. Rectangular box with blue and white champlevé enamel and engraved scrollwork. In the center of the lid is a tall oval medallion with fine enamel painting. Depicted within an engraved frame is a castle on a hill overlooking a lake in an Alpine landscape (its identification as Heidegg Castle in Aargau, above Lake Baldegg, is questionable). On the inside, a bouquet of flowers on a light blue background. The automaton is set in motion by a slider on the front. Upon opening the lid, a colorfully feathered bird with a movable body and head appears. On the back, the key can be stored in a compartment. The movement has been serviced (accompanied by handwritten notes and a series of photos). Engraved on the underside of the movement plate: “J. Bruguier.” In working order. With original key. In a matching case. Included are various small parts that were replaced during the overhaul. This piece was sold at Auctions Dr. Crott’s 106th auction on May 21, 2022, as Lot 439, with a hammer price of 24,700 euros. Auction date: November 27, 2026 Approximate auction time: 4:40 p.m. CET