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Vey rare and fine enamel signing bird automaton box crafted by the renowned Karl Griesbaum in mid of 20th century in Germany. Side panels with hand painted on enamel rural alpine lakeside scenes set within cream enamel borders, bird cover painted with a enamel scene featuring a scene of a mandolin player courting two young ladies and various lake scenes. The entire case is signed and made by Emil Brenk (EB). Concealed inside is a miniature bird, covered with colourful hummingbird feathers. When the lid is opened, the bird appears to sing a lovely tune, while moving his beak and flapping his wings. When the birdsong is complete, the tiny creature simply slips back into the box and the lid closes behind it. Accompanied by original winding key and box.
Two-body, rectangular with engraved round corners, side panels with painted on enamel rural alpine lakeside scenes set within cream enamel borders, bird cover painted with a enamel scene featuring a scene of a mandolin player courting two young ladies and various lake scenes. Rectangular brass, going barrel and rectangular bellows, the revolving bird with moving wings and beak, controlled by two cams mounted beneath the barrel wheel, gilt grille pierced and engraved with foliage. The oval hinged top opens to a feathered bird with moving wings and singing. Beautiful sound. The bottom is stamped “EB” (Emil Brenk) and “metal”. With original key and box.
A truly remarkable work of art and decorative collectible!