11-03-200511-03-2005
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBolton MA
2314
November 3, 2005 10:00 AMCalender
433

Fine Key-Wind Overture Musical Box by Ducommun-Girod

Sell one like this
$16,450$14,000
Auction: Clocks, Watches & Scientific Instruments - 2314Location: BoltonDate / Time: November 03, 2005 10:00AM

Description:

Fine Key-Wind Overture Musical Box by Ducommun-Girod, No. 16760, the bedplate stamped Ducommun-Girod and "cross" foundry mark, playing three overtures by Rossini (Semiramis, le Barbier de Seville and La Pie Voleuse) on six-step cam, with brass comb-washers and instant-stop, in boxwood-strung figured rosewood case with plain interior, hinged endflap, and lid with inlay of trailing flowers and foliate-scrolls, wd. 14 1/2 in., cylinder 8 x 2 1/2 in., (case with some missing beading and old veneer repair to lid).

Note: The unusual three-air programme by one composer features overtures from Rossini's early career. The latest piece, Semiramide, first performed in 1823, was his last opera written for Italy. There are approximately 155 teeth in the comb, and tunes last for just under 2 1/4 minutes. There is no tune-sheet, nor any indication of one. Instead, the tunes are listed in ink on the key-compartment division. Apart from minimal cleaning and damper adjustment, the movement is in excellent and apparently original playing condition.
Estimate $12,000-18,000

Keywords

Seville, composer , Italy