small cylinder music box #24679

Mediumwood, metal, and paper

Dimensions14 × 6 1/2 × 5 in. (35.6 × 16.5 × 12.7 cm)

ClassificationsMusical Instruments

Credit LineGift of Donald E. Larew to the Farm House Museum. In the Farm House Museum Collection, Farm House Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object numberUM2011.434

Status

Not on view

Collections

Household objects, Musical instruments and Tools

Label TextThis cylinder type music box is in great condition and is an example of the music boxes produced pre 1880 when more work was put into crafting a music box that sounded pleasant rather than one that could play many tunes by sacrificing tonal quality. This box has 67 teeth on a single piece comb. This allows for a broad range and multiple airs to be stored, six in this case. The mechanics of this box are in fantastic condition. The spring winding lever as well as the spring drum work flawlessly and keep the cylinder playback on tempo. There is no tune indicator with this music box, and there are no marks or holes to indicate there ever had been one. One presumes that the tunes popularity allowed them to be recognized rather than comparing tune indicator with playing card. The case for this music box is painted black inside and has a dark stained veneer on its exterior. The inlay on the lid of this case is in good shape missing only a small portion of the border on the left edge. The case has a recessed brass lock with only an exposed keyhole. This is unlike the majority of cases with an exposed lock plate on the front of the case. There are no markings apparent on this music box to show where it was manufactured or by whom. This is not unusual in earlier music box production and the manufacturers stamp or seal may be on the underside of the base plate as was common in that era. Plays 6 songs: 1. Telegramme, Strauss 2. Galol Militaire, Mayer 3. Mme. S'Archidvc, Offenbach 4. Last Rose of Summer, Floton 5. _____'s Olivette, Audran 6. Fatinitra, Suppe