Antique Victory Canary Songster - Gilt Metal Bird Whistle Toy

Here on offer is a fine example of an antique Victory Canary Songster gilt metal bird whistle toy.

This type of canary whistle was patented by the Victory Sparkler & Speciality Co, of Elkton, MD, USA.

It is made from pressed gilt brass and has stationary attached wings.

The canary itself is attached to a vertical hollow brass tube and still retains a small length of rubber hose.

When you blow into the side tube, the birdie's beak opens and closes, the tail moves up and down and the canary whistles.

The vertical tube is attached to a round-bottomed two-part container at the base.
The top of the base has a small hole in the centre. When the top half of the container is removed, water can be put into the bottom half.
Then when you blow into the side tube, the birdie's beak opens and closes, the tail moves up and down and the birdie makes a whistling, gargling like a warble, which is hilarious!

My understanding is that early photographers needed a technique to get people to focus on the camera.

A canary proved to be the answer to getting children to sit still, be happy, smile and look at the camera.

According to the Museum at George Eastman House, the brass "Birdie" was introduced in the 1870s and "The phrase 'watch the birdie' originated with this item."

It is in excellent working condition and the brass gilt now has a wonderful patina.

The canary and container measures 4” (10.2cm) and the canary is 2.25” (5.8cm) wide.

It weighs 25g.

A great collector’s item that still works today!

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Thanks for taking the time to look.

Code: 50826