Inkipedia
Inkstand with Music Box – Mother Hen and Chicks
| Categories | Dual Purpose Inkstands, Figural - Animals & Living Creatures |
| Type | Barnyard, Music Box |
| Material | Metal |
| Markings | Unmarked |
| Manufacturer | Undetermined |
| Origin | Germany |
| Date or Era | 1890 |
| Measuring | Width: 4 ¾”; Height 5 ¼” |
This combination inkstand and music box features a farmyard scene: a mother hen and her two chicks are gathered at a pump house with a waterspout pouring into a trough. The inkstand was cast in base metal, then painted with enamel paint. When the lid to the pump house is lifted to access the ink pot within, it actuates a music box. While the music plays, a clear spiral glass rod turns, creating the illusion of flowing water. A clockwork motor powers the music box and rotates the glass spiral by pulley and belt. One can enjoy listening to “Lieberstraum” (we think) while dipping into the ink and writing.
Estimated value: $1000
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