A fruitwood case with graceful shape houses a round clock above a glass-fronted vitrine with a diorama of a castle scene and tall-masted ship in a rocky sea. The clock face is marked Michel Freres, Marseille from whence the clock was sold, the clock movement is stamped S. marti & Cie, Medaille de Bronze. The animated tableau is contained in a separate compartment and operates by a pull-string. There are two musical tunes listed on the program label on back of clock door, Chanson de Fortunio, and Genevieve de Brabant Quadrille.
Movements: The ship rocks back and forth as though on a stormy sea. The musical box is of fine quality with lyrical sweet yet strong sounds.
Historical References: S. Marti & Cie were considered premiere clockmakers in Paris in the last quarter of the 19th century. In this lovely piece the combined talents of clockmakers, musical box maker, and animated tableaux maker have combined with a charming result. The animated tableau is in the style of Tharin. Circa 1875.