Similar to how chiming watches are considered one of the pinnacles of mechanical watchmaking, music boxes are considered the pinnacle of the mechanical automaton world. Among these, the ‘singing bird in a birdcage’ is considered among the great classics, and is much sought after as a collector’s item. It also happens to be one of the core specialisations of Reuge, who have just released a new interpretation of this musical and visual delight.
Reuge is a renowned Swiss company specialising in the production of high-end music boxes since 1865. Based in Sainte-Croix, in the canton of Vaud, the maison was acquired recently by the independent Swiss watch manufacturer De Bethune.
De Bethune founder and master watchmaker Denis Flageollet heads a team of highly specialised artisans with in-depth knowledge of metal, wood and art mechanics. Their collective creativity enables them to create music boxes that are distinguished by their high precision, melodious sound and beautiful aesthetics.
Named Liberté, the new “birdcage” is the first product released under the leadership of Denis Flageollet, and according to the brand, points the way of Reuge’s future creative direction.
Designed by Clara Martin, the maison’s youthful designer, Liberté has the unmistakable silhouette of a classical birdcage, but without a cage. The “cage” is replaced by an open space which blends into the environment, allowing the pair of songbirds to chirp without constraint. A classic reinterpreted for the modern age.
One of the broght blue birds is perched on a rock next to a stretch of water, while the other is on the ground, appearing as if in conversation with each other. Meanwhile, the forged metal branch not only forms the hook that supports the tableau, but also forms the iconic outline of the classical birdcage.
A digital clock tells the time with numerals through a porthole on one side of the birdcage’s base. On the underside of the base, an analogue clock with a metallic blue and silver dial takes up the entire space.
The Liberté “birdcage” could hang in an entrance hall, evoking the vestibule clocks adorning 18th-century residences. It could also hand over stairwells, or in open spaces where guests could admire its allure.
Reuge music boxes have become highly prized collector’s items for music lovers and art connoisseurs. The new Liberté “birdcage,” with its fresh and practical take on the music box classic is sure to follow suit.
Reuge music boxes are available in a variety of styles, sizes and designs, ranging from classic to modern. Some music boxes are even customisable, with the possibility of choosing the melody, colour and finishes. The quality of Reuge music boxes is such that the firm has been chosen to provide state gifts on several occasions. For example, in 1997 the maison created a special music box to celebrate the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana. In 2013, it was commissioned to create a commemorative music box for the coronation of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands.
