Germany, Triberg

1920-1988

Karl Griesbaum Company

Silver, brass, steel, painted birds' feathers; bench and lathe machining, filigree work, punching, gold plating

7.6 х 10.8 х 8 cm, 845 gr

Lettering, notes: "MADEINGERMANY"; Marks: in the form of a bird sitting on a tree branch over the silhouette of three mountain tops, letters “K” and “G” on the bird sides

Singing bird box in metal gold-plated case that is richly decorated with filigree and punch work. A miniature movement, that is operated by a spring is inside the box. Tobacco compartment is in the box pedestal. The movement switching lever is located on the case front side. An oval lid is in the top side center. When the movement is started, the lid hinges upwards and the bird in colourful plumage appears from under it. The bird turns from side to side, waves the wings, opens and closes the beak. The chirping is heard. Several seconds later the bird stops and hides. The lid goes down. The movement was constructed as per the scheme developed in 1895 in Switzerland. The movement is a cam-controlled automated device with one whistle and air bellows.