Antique Rochat, Rmond and Piguet & Capt 'bird box' could tweet to $150,000
This antique singing bird box will tweet at Christie's upcoming important silver objects auction...
On October 21, Christie's Important Silver and Objects of Vertu sale will present 218 precious works in silver and gold by well-known craftsmen such as Paul Storr, Mario Buccellati and many others.
Highlighting the sale is an extraordinary Swiss gold, enamel and pearl-set singing-bird box with a rare double watch movement, Geneva, circa 1813 (estimated at $100,000-150,000).
The Swiss gold, enamel and pearl-set singing-bird box
A gorgeous union between Frres Rochat, the Swiss watch maker, the exquisite craftsmanship by George Rmond, the gold box maker, and retailer Piguet & Capt, this singing bird box epitomises the creativity of watch makers in Europe.
Specifically, this piece was made to satisfy the ever-growing demands by European, Middle Eastern, and Asian clientele in the early 19th century.
The box cover and watch dials are delicately set with pearl laden borders and illustrates a scene of a mother and child with the father looking on. In addition, the bird sings four musical phrases - two birdsongs and two folksongs.
A Magnificent Regency Silver-Gilt Centrepiece Candelabrum
Other highlights in the sale include A Magnificent Regency Silver-Gilt Centrepiece Candelabrum. Designed By John Flaxman, R.A. Mark Of Paul Storr, London, 1816, it was then produced by Mark Of Phillip Rundell And Paul Storr in 1819.
Bearing the signature Of Rundell Bridge And Rundell, the piece is estimated at $600,000-900,000.