This is a brass articulated photographer’s “birdie” whistle with
MOVING BEAK AND TAILFEATHERS!!!
The bird functions perfectly and is in fantastic condition
Tarnished to indicate it’s age.
Missing tubing
When a bit of water is applied to the bowl container, these whistles produce a light, warbling bird imitation and the fluttering looks like that of an automaton
by manipulating the small pressure-relief hole in the top of the water chamber, and if the bird is set properly by sliding him up and down the vertical tube, a “sweet spot” will be discovered where the changes in pitch and full birdie action can be manipulated with mouth pressure alone.
While I reckon these were originally designed as children’s toys, it’s clear to see why something like this could be trouble in the hands of a youngster. Not only would their sharp extremes be dangerous to young children, but they were thinly constructed little novely items, and easily damaged or destroyed.
The bright, fluttering appearance of these little birdies was quickly employed by the photographers of yesteryear, to capture the attention of (and bring a smile to) their portrait subjects… particularly restless children. When used in conjuction with a puff ball shutter release, the photographer could actually link the hose from the shutter to the little whistle, as gentle squeezes are enough to make the bird FLUTTER INTO ACTION… then at his chosen moment, the cameraman would simply apply a forceful squeeze to the puff ball, releasing the shutter.
So, as you’ve probably figured out by now, these whistles are the original source of the phrase, “LOOK AT THE BIRDIE (and smile)”.
Selling as is!
14.95
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