Lot #5083 - Built in 1865 during Alexandre Gasparini's transition from Italy to France, this amazing Band Organ has withstood the test of time. Renamed the "Gypsy Queen" after its purchase by American Gypsies, it traveled the rivers of the south, bringing entertainment and news to towns that were along the banks. Folklore goes that the Calliope was used to lure the townsfolk from their homes while other Gypsies lifted what they could from their pockets and their homes without detection. The "Gypsy Queen" even had secret compartments to hide the stolen items in just in case suspicious crowds felt the need to check the Gypsies. The "Gypsy Queen" was originally built as a 52-key organ until its conversion to use the cardboard books to play the music through an automatic feed, making the Calliope an even bigger marvel at the time. Regular maintenance has kept the cherished Band Organ playing since its restoration in 1912. **SOLD AS A PAIR WITH LOT 5082**