17th May, 2023 10:30 GMT/BST
Scientific & Musical Instruments, Cameras & Tools
60
A Superb Symphonion Style No. 30ST 13.1/2-inch Upright Longcase Disc Musical Box Timepiece
serial no. 261784, with Symphonion patent 'Sublime-Harmonie' combs, open resonance chamber to the full length of the trunk, the Lenzkirch 14-day timepiece with Western Arabic numerals with music actuation linkage, in imposing and very finely detailed walnut case, carved with inset scrolls and geometric reserves, half-columns to timepiece housing to top, above trunk below and repeated to base and aprons, the top with double dome pediment and finials, with 13 discs (one tooth off) - 93" (236cm) total height
Although one of the most sought-after disc musical boxes, there were several timepiece models by Symphonion, Polyphon and others. This model was also supplied with art glass fitted as the front trunk panel for an extra fee when ordered. Grand, imposing, technically brilliant, aesthetically pleasing - typical Symphonion doing what they were famous for at the time and still admired today.
Sold for £2,800
Estimated at £3,000 - £5,000
Auction: Scientific & Musical Instruments, Cameras & Tools, 17th May, 2023
A rare musical ‘Captain’s Desk’ Davenport is one of the highlights of the sale, which offers over 180 lots of musical instruments, mechanical music, scientific instruments and cameras. At first glance this piece, which was made circa 1875-80, appears to be purely a well veneered compact desk with a sloped piano-lid over an extendable writing desk. However, concealed within the burr-walnut finished body is a finely made musical box. A second finely cased disc musical box, this time in an upright longcase form with a clock, is also on offer. The superb piece was made by Symphonion, one of the finest and most admired makers of musical boxes.
Elsewhere in the sale, a strong selection of musical instruments is led by a good violin made in 1901 by Jeffery J Gilbert of Peterborough and a well-made classical guitar by Antonio Raya Pardo. Also of interest to collectors is a fine binocular microscope made by J. Swift of London, and a good example of the always desirable pharmacy leech jar. The present example was made by Samuel Alcock & Co, Cobridge, Staffordshire, and the earthenware is decorated with green and white ground with gilding.
Viewing
Tuesday 16 May 10am-5pm and morning of sale from 8am
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