Four decanters and 10 cordials, etched design with gold highlights. A hexagonal base and sides with the top cover, both decorated with heavy grained veneer (possibly rosewood) in a portal form, surrounded by burl for the field. The acme is burl veneer with eight fan shaped straight grained inlays, with a geometric center. The base has a scroll applied element denoting the face, handles on the flanks, round plinth type feet; beaded lower edging with egg and dart top edging. The top cover has an acanthus leaf form plaque denoting the face, with heavy handles on the flanks. A decorative open scroll and bead edge is along the entire top edge of the cover. An acanthus plaque is positioned dead center on the top cover. An 11 ⅜" round tray, slides over a 5" shaft, the tray top inlaid with alternating straight grained pieces, from which tiers rise to form specific locations, for four 8 ½" tall liqueur bottle, and ten cordial glasses, all pieces are decorated with applied gold, in scroll and garland motifs. A door opens in the base for a winding key. Two round pins extending from the top of the base, engage/disengage the music, and one stalls the governor. The round tray is geared, and will rotate while the music plays, or used simply to reposition the liqueur bottles while sitting. All metal decorative pieces, are gilt bronze. Has original key to lock the cover. Missing winding key for music box.
Provenance: Life time collection, Ben H. Richman, businessman and philanthropist, Pittsburgh/ Washington, PA, by descent in the family to the current owner.
Condition
Overall very good antique condition, as is, missing a few cordials, some wear to gold. The music drive works and tune plays, needs a strip and clean for best function. Bottom board needs some repair or replacement. Refer to video for operation.