The Allen Koenigsberg Phonograph Collection
Lot 3234:
Description
The Pathé “Le Ménestrel” (The Minstrel) is widely considered by collectors to be one of the most beautiful cylinder phonographs ever manufactured. Produced between 1901 and 1903 by the prominent French company Pathé Frères, it was commissioned and exclusively marketed through mail-order credit installment plans by the Parisian firm J. Girard & Cie. This is the 1903 combination model with an adjustable reproducer carriage and a slip-on secondary mandrel, allowing users to switch effortlessly between standard 2-inch and wider 3-inch “Salon” or “Inter” cylinder formats. In overall good original condition with the dark green paint and gold highlights on the heavy and ornate cast iron footed base. The plating on the parts is VG but the machine needs a good cleaning and polishing. Original key winds the spring motor. Motor runs when switched on but there is no belt. The mandrel spins freely. Reproducer in good condition with stylus present but could use a rebuild. Spun aluminum horn with 11.25″ diameter in good condition with a couple of very minor dents. Needs a good polishing. The metal cover is in fair condition with 75-80% original paint and one broken spring clip which will not lock. Measures 12.25″ wide, 11.25″ deep,18.5″ tall with the horn attached. From the Allen Koenigsberg collection.
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