#Exhibit of the Month

The music is recorded on a cylinder with pins. The interior is divided into three compartments: the first contains the crank and the mechanism that operates the cylinder with pins, the second - the cylinder with pins and vibrating lamellae, and the third - two levers for starting and stopping the melody. The cylinder holds seven melodies by W.A. Mozart, which are played through the vibration of steel teeth arranged in a comb, whose tips are adjacent to the cylinder. The lid of the box features floral marquetry on its outer surface. This cultural asset is classified under the "Tezaur" category.

The Story of Musical Boxes

Musical boxes originated in Switzerland at the end of the 18th century. In 1796, watchmaker Antoine Favre-Salomon invented a pocket watch with an incorporated musical mechanism, using the principle of tuned metal lamellae. The invention quickly spread, soon leading to the creation of musical boxes independent of watches.

Initially invented and built for the salon entertainment of the aristocracy, musical boxes quickly evolved, capturing the market and public interest with these entertainment machines. The musical box industry was predominantly centered in Switzerland. Geneva remains the cradle of the musical box, even though the art of crafting these musical wonders spread to other regions of Switzerland - such as Jura, Auberson, and Sainte Croix - and later to other countries, including France, Germany, and Czechoslovakia. Some of the most notable manufacturers of musical boxes include: Mermod Frères, Paillard, Reuge, Thorens, Cuendet, Junod, Nicole Frères, Ducommun-Girod, Brémond, and L'Epee.

The musical box operated on a relatively simple principle: a cylinder with pins (cylindrical pins) would, through rotation, actuate a metal "comb" tuned to specific musical notes, both being concealed from view in one of the box's compartments. By turning the cylinder - with the help of a spring mechanism (similar to that of watches) - the pins would strike the steel "teeth" of the comb, causing them to vibrate and produce different musical notes. A musical box could have a limited number of melodies "programmed" onto the cylinder - from 4 to 12.

Over time, the cylinders were replaced with interchangeable metal discs. Based on this operating principle, large musical boxes emerged in cafés and taverns, which could be activated by inserting a coin, allowing users to select their preferred disc.

Besides the ingenious mechanism, musical boxes also stood out for the artistry of their exterior decorations, featuring materials such as precious woods, mother-of-pearl, ivory, and metal.

The decline of musical boxes began with the invention of the phonograph (1877) and the gramophone (1887). Production continued for a while, but by the early 20th century, most renowned companies had abandoned the business and started manufacturing other mechanical musical instruments.

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Exhibitions

„From Stray to Star”

October 15 - November 15, 2024

From October 15 to November 15, 2024, the National Museum of History of Moldova will host the exhibition "From Stray to Star," organized by the Animal Protection Association "DOCTOR VET" in collaboration with FOUR PAWS International. This initiative is part of a partnership program with the Chișinău City Hall aimed at addressing the issue of stray animals.

In a world where stray animals are often overlooked, the exhibition "From Stray to Star," created by award-winning photographer Sophie Gamand, known for her work in animal rights, serves as a ray of hope and recognition for homeless animals. During her first visit to Moldova in 2023, Sophie was deeply moved by the spirit of stray dogs and the harsh conditions they endure. This experience inspired her to launch a project that highlights the personalities of these dogs through stunning photographs, giving them a voice and emphasizing that each one deserves a loving home.

The exhibition will bring together the local community and animal lovers, providing an opportunity to reflect on our relationship with these vulnerable beings. Sophie Gamand not only documents the lives of these dogs but transforms each image into a story that touches the heart of the viewer. Behind every photograph lies a narrative of hope, struggle, and the desire to find a home.

This project was made possible with the support of FOUR PAWS, which has been promoting animal welfare globally since 1988. With over 25 years of experience, FOUR PAWS provides sustainable solutions for companion animals, farm animals, and wildlife in Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and Southern Africa.

The "DOCTOR VET" Association also played a crucial role in organizing this exhibition by supporting stray dogs and cats through their rescue and care efforts. Through the veterinary clinic opened in 2020 and the "Capture - Sterilize - Vaccinate - Release" program, the organization actively contributes to reducing the number of stray animals, thus inspiring this artistic initiative.

The exhibition "From Stray to Star" is not just an artistic display; it is an invitation to reflection and action. Through this exhibition, we aim to inspire the community to actively engage in improving the welfare of animals in Moldova and to recognize their values and contributions to society. Stray dogs have stories to tell, and Sophie Gamand's exhibition gives them the chance to be heard.

We invite you to discover these touching stories and join the efforts to change the lives of these dogs, providing them not only a glimpse into their past but also hope for a better future.

The exhibition will be open until November 15, 2024