Music box - United Kingdom - 1850-1900 - Vittoriano "Dome Top"

Splendid and elegant Victorian-era music box (mid-19th century, circa 1850-1860), characterized by the typical exclusive English dome-top structure. The main body is entirely made of precious walnut burl wood, showcasing a splendid natural grain and a fascinating wood knot on the lid, an element that gives the piece uniqueness and character. The box is richly embellished with antique brass ornamental features: perimeter bands, hemispherical studs, and a sumptuous central shaped plaque. In the center stands a refined enameled medallion with a portrait. The interior preserves the fascinating and opulent original lining in red velvet and silk. Musical Mechanism and Keys: Inside is housed a rare antique music box mechanism that plays in an extremely fluid, clean, and steady manner, offering a captivating melodious reproduction free of snags. The peculiarity of this lot is the presence of both of its original keys, a detail very rare to find on the antiques market: 1. The “T”-key for winding the music cylinder. 2. The original key for closing the box. Condition Report: The item presents a structurally solid state of conservation and is a magnificent testament to 19th-century craftsmanship. The following historical and wear details, visible also in the photographs, are noted: • The central enameled medallion on the lid shows a superficial thread/CRACK with a minimal missing on the right side. • The lock key is present but the bolt mechanism is currently blocked (requires light lubrication or servicing to turn smoothly). • The wood is sound and shows a beautiful time-worn patina; the visible discontinuity on the lid is a natural knot of the solid wood and not damage from veneering. A collectible piece of great charm, ideal for antique enthusiasts and mechanical music boxes.

Estimate:$246.5

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