A particularly elegant and well proportioned late 19th century singing bird box, housed in a rich tortoiseshell case of restrained yet sophisticated form. The rectangular case, gently domed to the top, in beautifully figured tortoiseshell, displaying deep, warm tonal variation. It is centred by a circular gilt bronze bezel and silvered bronze lid, finely decorated with classical foliate ornament. The front is fitted with a discreet slide lever to start the singing. Boxes of this type represent the the Geneva tradition, where precision engineering meets luxury materials. The use of tortoiseshell, always reserved for higher grade examples, adds a depth and richness rarely found in more common cases. Compact, yet highly decorative, this is a classic example of the form, elegant, tacttile and endlessly engaging. French circa 1880 Size - 4in. wide, 2.5/8in. deep, 1.3/8in. high - (10.2 x 6.6 x 3.5cm)