Lot number 2734 - Auction 160
GROSSE PRACHTVOLLE ORCHESTRION WALZENSPIELDOSE 'PALLIARD' MIT TROMMEL, GLOCKEN UND KASTAGNETTEN

LARGE, MAGNIFICENT 'PAILLARD' ORCHESTRION CYLINDER MUSIC BOX WITH DRUM, BELLS, AND CASTANETS Switzerland, Sainte-Croix, c. 1880-1890 Rectangular fine-wood case featuring rich floral inlays on the lid, an internal glass dust cover, a spring-driven cylinder mechanism, and side carrying handles. H. approx. 27 cm, W. 60 cm, D. 33 cm. Comb marked 'PAILLARD' with the crossbow trademark. Case features a molded lid and base, richly decorated with polychrome floral marquetry and double stringing inlay. Two solid brass carrying handles on the sides; brass escutcheon and key on the front. Precision solid-brass mechanism with a wide brass cylinder and steel comb. Orchestrion features include a drum, five engraved brass bells, and castanets. Bells fitted with colorful enameled strikers shaped like butterflies, bees, and ladybugs. Adjustable tune indicator reading '8 Airs - Drum, Bells and Castagnettes' with Paillard logos. Original color-printed tune sheet featuring the Swiss coat of arms and depictions of traditional costumes and landscapes. The Paillard firm of Sainte-Croix was one of the most important manufacturers of high-quality Swiss cylinder music boxes in the late 19th century. This orchestrion combines an elaborately crafted case with a technically sophisticated mechanism. Minor rubbing and signs of use; veneer damage to the case; mechanism starts when engaged. Provenance: Private collection in the Rhineland.