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German "Song Bird in Cage" Toy, Circa 1920

Offered by: Clive Devenish Antiques

Description
Diminutive in stature (almost has the feel of a penny toy), this German tin wind up toy operates by turning the attached key on the side and listening to the bird sing (have to listen closely) as he rocks back and forth. Singing is created by operative bellows beneath the the toy. Condition is excellent with nothing broken, no restoration, and all original hand painted surfaces intact, with nicely sharp colored red, yellow, blue, and green bird. There is a slight indentation where the key is attached (see image).

This toy is often mistaken for a post-war German Western Zone toy. It is actually made in Germany circa 1920; as evidenced by the mark "Ges.Gesch" on the bottom key wind side of the toy. That mark was used during that particular time period between 1900 and 1920. "Ges.Gesch" is not the manufacturer; it stands for "registered trademark", and is typically inaccurately referenced as the maker. The maker is unknown to me, but it is German and marked accordingly "Made in Germany". It also has a mark "U.S.A. Patent Applied For", so the toy was obviously made for export.

Dimensions" 3" w x 2 1/2" d x 3 1/2" high.

More Information

Origin:	United States
Period:	1900-1919
Materials:	Tin
Condition:	Excellent. See description. Wear consistent with use. Slight indentation where keywind is attached (see image).
Creation Date:	Circa 1920
Styles / Movements:	Folk Art, Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	181374

Dimensions

W.	3 in;	H.	3.5 in;	Diam.	2.5 in;
W.	7.62 cm;	H.	8.89 cm;	Diam.	6.35 cm;

Message from Seller:

We are specialists in the field of antique mechanical coin banks. These rare and unique items were sold during the late 1800's and early 1900's to encourage and educate young children on the importance of saving money, with the majority of them having been made in America. We are leading experts in this field and one of the foremost dealers, having traded in mechanical banks since 1976.

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