music box

A finely crafted mahogany music box sits toward the bottom of the case. Tilted cattycorner to the shelf, the deep color of the wood seems to shine beneath the thin layer of dust collected upon it.

The top is ornately carved, French trim around the edge. The lid is carved into a quartered square, each square sculpted in the likeness of one of the four seasons. The bottom balances on four gold-plated feet, each slightly tarnished with age. An equally tarnished miniature hand crank juts out from the right side of the box.

Though smaller than traditional table-top music boxes, Corin’s was obviously an heirloom or keepsake. There are several notches and scratches on the sides of the box, suggesting heavy wear and a decreased value for serious collectors. Once thoroughly dusted, observers note the increased oil deposits (in the shape of thumbs and hands) that suggest the box was held at its sides and back many times in identical fashion. The pattern of oils and the warped features of the box’s side panels suggest a persistent stroking motion with both thumbs.

Lift the hinged lid of the wooden box to reveal a miniature disc, rotating to play the one song engraved therin. The plate bolted to the top of the runner says “San Francisco Music Box Company, 1960” and below that, “Que Sera, Sera” in elaborate cursive script. The disc itself is out of tune and badly worn, though still plays an instrumental version of the popular American song, “Que sera sera,” circa 1956.

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