This is in response to an earlier posting/inquiry from Mark Singleton
in 021108 MMDigest regarding finding someone to handle carving a
reproduction of the Symphonion "Gambrinus" figure:

In all the years we've been involved in the field of mechanical
music, I believe that we've only ever seen two of this model that were
original, and from discussions with several of the more senior European
collectors and dealers, there may only be about four or so complete
originals extant today.

There are however, a few more of these that have surfaced over the
years (some with partially original casks) having Gambrinus figures
made from metal castings, terra cotta, the carved wood, gesso,
and polychrome finishing.  Several people have been involved in
making these difficult and detailed figures with some ending up poor,
fair-to-middling and more recently, the latter carved, gesso and
polychromed models are being crafted very nicely by custom order
in Europe.

Matter of fact, if you are lacking the cask itself, upon which
Gambrinus sits, that also is being reproduced (sans Symphonion
mechanism).  The same is true for the nearly as rare and larger
"Savoyard" figure with organ, that was originally fitted with several
types of automatic musical instruments.  Either of these can be fitted
for both coin-op or home model use.

If you are interested in getting some more information and prices on
these pieces coming out of Europe, please contact me and we'll forward
it directly to you.

Jere & Steve Ryder - AutaMusique, Ltd.
Summit, NJ

 [ Gambrinus is a mythical Flemish king said to have been the
 [ inventor of beer.  Good pictures of the complete Symphonion
 [ "Gambrinus" music box are at http://www.aida.net/disc3.htm and
 [ at http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/cworldinc/boxes/Gambrinus.jpg
 [ -- Robbie