The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

This machine came from Sacramento a while back and I've brought it home from storage to try and figure out what it is, and how to restore it. The phonograph is an Edison Model D, 2 and 4 minute version, modified with the addition of an above deck speed control knob. The following four pictures show the detailed artwork over gold paint. The artwork appears to be hand painted. (Not shown is the matching horn which has partially disintegrated and appears to have remnants of the same paint scheme.) Does anyone know who made this conversion? Any suggestions on who could redo the artwork? TNX, Russie Ofria

Nice! It appears to be a custom built cabinet

Well whoever did the cabinet did a great job of doing the work but a lousy job in prep. It was either gold leafed and then painted over or done in bronzing power and then varnished. In any case the prep would have first to cover the cabinet in gesso which is the first base that is applied over wood for leaf or bronzing. That would be followed by bole-a red clay that is applied over the gesso. Each coat is sanded smooth and then it is sealed with varnish. Sizing is applied and then the leaf is laid down or the bronzing is done. In this case it done right over the wood so whatever was used to finish the case as it breaks down this is what happens. Too bad it look like it was really neat.
Abe