Fontanini Nativity Music Box Value Guide

This vintage 1980s Fontanini music box is a prized collectible that blends the renowned craftsmanship of Bagni di Lucca with a mechanical musical movement. Featuring a shepherd with a lamb and baby Jesus, it represents the meticulous hand-painted detail that has defined the Fontanini family legacy since 1908.

What affects the value of Fontanini Nativity Music Box?

• The functional condition of the internal metal musical movement and the clarity of the tune.
• The preservation of the hand-painted details, specifically looking for chips in the polymer resin.
• The presence of original 1980s packaging or documentation from the Bagni di Lucca workshop.
• Overall cosmetic condition of the wooden base, including the winding key and any surface scratches.

How to Identify Fontanini Nativity Music Box?

• Look for the signature Fontanini spider mark or the 'Italy' stamp on the polymer resin figure.
• Verify the presence of the original wooden base which houses the metal musical movement.
• Check for the specific 1980s styling of the shepherd carrying a lamb with the manger at his feet.
• Examine the hand-painted finish for the soft, matte texture characteristic of authentic Tuscan resin figures.

History of Fontanini Nativity Music Box

Fontanini is a revered Italian brand known for its handcrafted nativity figures and religious sculptures, originating in the picturesque village of Bagni di Lucca in Tuscany. The company was founded in 1908 by Emanuele Fontanini, a young artisan who began crafting religious figures. Over generations, the family business expanded, gaining international recognition for its exquisite detail and quality. Their figures, often made from a polymer resin, are meticulously hand-painted, bringing to life the traditional Christmas story. This particular piece, a music box, combines the beloved Fontanini artistry with a musical element, adding to its charm as a cherished holiday decoration.