A FRENCH GILT-BRASS MOUNTED TORTOISESHELL SINGING BIRD BOX AUTOMATON

The movement most likely by Blaise Bontems (model no. 11), circa 1890
The hinged oval lid centred by an engraved floral motif, opening to reveal a colourful, rotating and flapping singing bird on a pierced and engraved foliate decorated grill, co-ordinated to birdsong, activated and retracted by a slide in the front panel, with a hinged compartment to back, with case and associated key, 10 x 6.5 x 4cm; 13 x 9 x 6cm with case