C.1880, French, Animated Whistling Bird clock

C.1880, French, Animated Whistling Bird clock in a giant gilded spelter case with hand decorated porcelain plaques, dial and columns. The bird sits in the central portico and twits and tweets for nearly half an hour to the winding; flanking the central display are two putti, one with a flute, the other with a goblet. The large whistling mechanism is contained with the giltwood base, and with winding key and actuation lever at the right. The bird retains its bright red and green feathers. The 8-day time and bell strike French movement is signed H and F (+Marti seal) and is sound and running and with original hands. Whistling mechanism will need minor cleaning and adjustment, but is working reasonably well as is. The spelter with minor pits and rough spots. An imposing piece, meant for a large mantel. Height 27" $5500-6500