Description
Over 100 years before this box was made, Jean-Frederick Leschot, assisted in the invention of the variable piston whistle which made it possible to mimic various bird's particular whistles, and even melodies became possible (as in the carved whistlers selling previous to this lot). This ormolu box is nicely tooled, with winged nymphs and scrolls on the top, and floral designs on the 4 sides. The mechanism and bird have been restored and the box is in playing order. The gilding is worn on high spots; Leschot signature is on front rigHeight corner and you need a loop to read it clearly. Width 4Ó, depth 2.5Ó $2,000-$2,500
Record courtesy of R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts