The Allen Koenigsberg Phonograph Collection
Lot 3492:
Description
This exceptional, late 1890s promotional catalogue from The Chicago Talking Machine Company represents an extraordinarily significant piece from the pioneering era of early recorded sound. Founded in 1893 by industry giants Leon Douglass and Henry Babson, this Chicago, Illinois firm operated out of 63 Clark St. and 98/107 Madison St., serving as a primary hub for early audio innovation. This complete paper artifact serves as a critical historical document, showcasing advanced period mechanics like the Amet Ball Bearing Double Spring Motor—designed by the prolific inventor Edward H. Amet—and the Eastern Spring Motor. The front features elegant Art Nouveau-influenced typography, while the back cover boasts a highly collectible, whimsical illustration of “Palmer Cox” style Brownie figures interacting with an early graphophone. This paper catalog is in fair condition, exhibiting visible paper loss on the front and back cover corners, a small internal edge tear, and substantial chipping and surface abrasions along the edges of the covers. H 6″, W 3.75″, D 0.1″. Please see photos for condition. From the Allen Koenigsberg collection.
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