This stunning antique French music box made circa 1885 in Switzerland or France is by the renowned maker Jerome Thibouville Lamy. The largest of the great Mirecourt musical instrument firms (1861-1968), they also produced exquisite music boxes which were often attributed to the firm " L'Eppe".
Examples of the firm’s music boxes can be found in the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, as well as the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
There is much debate among collectors about whether these music boxes are considered to be made in Switzerland or France- often the musical movement within was made in Switzerland, while the case would be assembled in France.
This music box boasts the hallmarks of quality in antique music boxes, with distinctive tuning marks on the brass below all the teeth as well as 4 popular airs of the 19th century listed on the original tune label. The lid is of rosewood with an elegant floral marquetry inlay design and satinwood borders.
The music box plays popular songs of the 19th century in the following order:
1. Holly Busch
2. Ye Banks and Braes
3. The Pirates of Penzance
4. Come Where My Love.
Price marked at $2500 AUD.
Measurements: 31cm by 15.5cm base measurements, 11cm high.
Condition: Wear to box as pictured as well as damage to lid. We have had this professionally inspected and confirmed in good working order. No key available but the new owner could easily source one if desired.
