Written by a leading authority on mechanical musical instruments, this book traces the history and development of the cylinder and disc musical box and describes some of the many other forms of mechanical instrument produced from the earliest times--such as Samuel Bidermann's self-acting spinet of the sixteenth century -to the present day.

Little has ever been published on this fascinating subject and Mr. Ord Hume's book sets out to relate the progress of the musical box from its early fOrm, when it was fitted into objets d'art, to the grand orchestral musical box of the latter years of the last century which had bells, drums, a reed organ and castanets.

The section detailing makers of musical boxes is comprehensive and includes main agents, repairers and inventors whose names have been associated with mechanical music work. Makers of organettes and mechanical singing birds are also listed. The identification of musical boxes by their trade marks and points of recognition is also covered.

For the first time, complete instructions are given on repair and overhaul of various musical box mechanisms and their cases. Copiously-illustrated with both photographs and drawings in text, this book is intended not only for the collector and restorer, but also the antique dealer and trader.

19.5cm x 25.6cm, 140 pages, Hardcover, 1967 (Condition: Very Good)

Condition Definition:
As New / Fine = New or almost without defect
Very Good = Showing signs of wear
Good / Fair = A bit worn but complete, with defects noted
Poor = worn with visible defects