1960s Fred Zimbalist Musical Jewelry Cabinet — Hand-Engraved Nickel Silver, Plays Beautifully

Details

Description

A beautifully hand-engraved Fred Zimbalist musical jewelry cabinet — a rare fusion of mid-century American craftsmanship and Indian artistry. Elegant, … Read more A beautifully hand-engraved Fred Zimbalist musical jewelry cabinet — a rare fusion of mid-century American craftsmanship and Indian artistry. Elegant, functional, and musically enchanting; a standout example of Zimbalist’s celebrated work.

An exceptional standing musical jewelry cabinet designed by Fred Zimbalist, founder of the Zimbalist Music Box Company of Cleveland, Ohio.

Crafted in the United States and sent to India for hand engraving, each Zimbalist piece was individually tooled by master artisans, blending American design with the ornate artistry of traditional Indian metalwork.

This remarkable cabinet features a shield-shaped openwork door and three blue velvet-lined drawers, each panel hand-engraved with intricate scrolls, vines, and floral motifs. The side door locks with a snap-over latch, and the music begins to play automatically when opened, revealing a clear, melodic tone. Comparable Zimbalist examples are known to contain Swiss Thorens musical movements, prized for their rich, resonant sound.

Constructed of nickel-silver plate over brass, with minimal magnetic response confirming the composition. Every surface displays extraordinary repoussé and chased detail, right down to the ornate claw-form feet.

Dimensions:
12.5″ H × 9″ W × 7.5″ D (overall, foot to foot)

Condition:
Excellent vintage condition with light age wear and patina. Music box functions smoothly and plays two distinct melodies. Velvet interiors show gentle wear consistent with age.

Style Tags:
Mid-Century, Anglo-Indian, Boho Luxe, Exotic Revival, Decorative Arts

Keywords:
music box, jewelry chest, engraved metal, blue velvet interior, Fred Zimbalist, musical cabinet, Thorens movement See less