Switzerland, Saint Croix

the 19th century

Abrahams B. H.

Wood (nutwood, birch, rosewood, mahogany), metal, glass, silk; carving

50 x 100 x 65 cm; disc diameter 23 cm

Inscription on the movement: "Made in Switzerland. The Britannia Ste Croix Switzerland Star Silver Depôt London" and number "5377"; inscription and the "Reg D. 370.254" - to the right; № 9364 on metal disc; № 195 on the fixing bar

Rectangular wooden box with two doors and a keyhole, on a profiled base, standing on four semi-circular feet. The case is decorated with three sorts of fine wood veneer, the lateral sides are veneered with nutwood, the doors are decorated in marquetry technique and veneered with rosewood and nutwood with birch veins. A slotted plate with a foliate motif covered with silk from inside is above the doors. The lid external surface is veneered with mahogany and is crowned with four round-top vases. An ivory dial  with an hour scale with black Arabic numerals and two metal hands is in the center. Musical movement is closed by the doors. It consists of a metal disc and two sound combs for 76 tunes. The movement is winded by a crank on the right lateral side of the case. A lever for activating the movement with two graduations: "stop" and "play" and a rotary speed control with a switch: "Hate speed / Full speed" are inside.