Bontems Rare Four Bird Automaton

An extremely rare four singing bird automaton by Bontems, Paris, circa 1880. Brass metal cage with sculpted giltwood base and  original key. In full working order.

*Location: Paris

Blaise Bontems (1814 -1881) was widely recognised as the foremost maker and specialist in singing birds for over a century.  In 1848 he opened a shop in Paris and exhibited at the Great Exhibition in London in 1851 where he received international renown and attracted the admiration of Queen Victoria herself.  Upon his death his son, Charles Jules and grandson, Lucien Bontems continued the family business.