This exquisite singing bird cage clock with automaton made by the legendary watch maker Jaquet-Droz in the late 18th century, sold to a Russian collector for CHF 291,750 (Approx. $303,099 USD) at Antiquorum’s auction in Geneva on November 10. This rare piece is only just over 20cm high and sings every three hours or by a lever when required.
Antiquorum describe the rare Singing Bird Cage Clock as follows:
“Made circa 1785, this is an extremely fine and diminutive, gilded-brass, automaton singing bird clock with “jumping” early-type painted bird with automated beak, wings, tail and automaton waterfall activated at will and by the clock every three hours. Collectors will appreciate the magical jumping effect of the bird, the delicacy of workmanship in the cage’s construction as well as the “ball and claw feet” that are distinctive of the workshop Jaquet-Droz.”
