SYMPHONION DISC MUSIC BOX. LEIPZIG, GERMANY, LATE 19TH CENTURY

A large Symphonion disc music box, manufactured in Leipzig in the late 19th century. The rectangular wooden case, raised on four turned feet, is designed in a form characteristic of cabinet mechanical musical instruments of the period. The lid is decorated with a central rectangular panel featuring floral marquetry in contrasting woods.

Beneath the hinged lid is a hand-wound mechanical musical movement. Its decorative gilt-toned cast bedplate is embellished with relief foliate ornament and prominently inscribed “SYMPHONION”. The interchangeable metal disc is mounted horizontally and, as it rotates, activates the metal teeth of the musical comb. This construction allowed the owner to change the repertoire by inserting discs programmed with different musical compositions.

The interior of the lid is fitted with a glazed printed composition depicting music-making putti and bearing the inscription “Symphonion”. The image serves both a decorative and a trademark function.

The music box is accompanied by nineteen interchangeable perforated metal music discs, significantly enhancing the ensemble as a historic mechanical musical instrument and collector’s object.

Markings: The cast bedplate of the mechanism bears the prominent relief inscription “SYMPHONION”; branded markings are also present on the music discs and on the printed composition inside the lid.

Dimensions: 30 × 53 × 47 cm.

Components: Music box, winding handle and 19 interchangeable perforated metal music discs.

Condition: Good condition.