A Large French Automaton, Duo of Singing Birds in Cage

Circa 1900, the feathered robotic birds are perched upon an upholstered terrace, within a gilt brass cage having repousse foliate scrollwork, stamped "MADE IN FRANCE" to the wood underside, adjustable lever for three settings and key wind aperture to the base side.

20 1/2 x 11 1/2 x 11 1/2 in.

From the Collection of Gustave and Carol Ferri, New Jersey and North Carolina

Some scratches and rubbing to the gilt finish; dent to upper sphere; dust soiling to feathers and upholstered terrace; without key; when tested with a spare key, both birds were moving with clear sound.