Rare Pathé Actuelle model T English Gothic c. 1920

[marcapra]

After the Great War, there was a big upsurge in phonograph sales and that was the era of ornate and fancy cabinets. For those who could afford them, the art model was the perfect thing to impress guests with in the parlor. Victrola, Columbia, Edison, and many others produced these fancy machines known as "Art Models". They were expensive then, and so are rare now. Here is one that is really nice for an eye-catching focal point in the well decorated home. It is the Pathé Actuelle English Gothic model T, which some call the "Tudor" model. Actually, Pathé made several models called "Gothic" and even several different English Gothics! I've had this one properly restored mechanically and cosmetically.

[barnettrp21122]

Very pretty! It looks like it would sound very nice too! Thanks for the description and pictures!
Bob

[Victrola-Monkey]

Awesome machine! Though I'm a Victor man, I have a thing for the Actuelle's and the Gothics are truly my favorite. Interesting how this ad for an Early English Gothic shows a Columbia with a very similar cabinet design as the pictures of the Actuelle above. Not knowing what the Columbia's cabinet interior looks like, I'm sure it is not nearly cool as the Pathé, with all its doors to increase volume and its unique Cone Tonearm. I think, it's very nice.

[Phono-Phan]

That is an awesome looking Pathé' !!!!!!

[audiophile102]

It looks perfect! Really well cared for machine. Thanks for posting.

[marcapra]

After purchasing an Edison Opera cylinder machine, I must sell off some of my collection to help cover the cost of the Opera, as you know what they can cost! This Pathé Actuelle is currently up for sale on ebay. Thanks.

[Starkton]

One wonders what is "Gothic" about this Pathé model.

[melvind]

I have never cared much for the Actuelle even though they are unique. But, I love this model. I've never seen one like it.

Dan

[marcapra]

One wonders what is "Gothic" about this Pathé model.

I did some research on this and the Tudor style is considered the last outgrowth of the Gothic style. Tudor style does not look as pointed and severe as French Gothic and after looking at some examples of Tudor style furniture, I can see the definite resemblance to this phonograph. The circular arches and carved and painted depictions of flowers are representative of the Tudor style, which some call English Gothic. Other features of this phonograph that are Gothic are the irregular trapezoidal shape and the four high legs going down to a low shelf near the floor. Here is a quote from the Wikipedia article on Tudor architecture:

The Tudor architectural style is the final development of Medieval architecture in England, during the Tudor period (1485–1603) and even beyond.