»Exhibition-Standard Full Orchestral Musical Changeable Box on
Escritoire«, c. 1880
No. 5128, probably by Heller, with six twelve-air
cylinders accompanied by 38-key organ, nine engine-turned graduated bells with brass finials, snare drum and
castanets, 49 teeth in the two musical and 21 teeth in the three percussion combs (all
complete), case: width 68 in. (173 cm) x 50 in. (127 cm) x depth 40 in. (102 cm), approx.
– One of the largest 19th century cylinder musical boxes
produced, the movement is substantially built and mechanically complex, with unusual refinements – such as the decoratively knurled cylinder grips and longue-marche assembly –
suggesting construction for exhibition purposes. The impressive dimensions can be appreciated best in person; the spring barrels alone have a diameter of 5 ¼ in. (13,5 cm).
The cylinders measure almost 26 in. (66 cm) x 3 ¼ in. (8 cm) diameter.
Movement and case are in excellent restored condition.
Estimate: € 30,000/45,000
US$ 41,100/61,700
Reserve: € 25,000/US$ 34,250
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