#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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Events Archive

Opening of the Exhibition "Metallurgy – from Magic to Industry"

September 26, 2024

On September 26, 2024, the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted the opening of the exhibition "Metallurgy - from Magic to Industry," a remarkable event that sheds light on the evolution of metallurgical technologies over time and their impact on society.

In his opening address, Dr. hab. Eugen Sava, General Director of MNIM, welcomed the attendees, emphasizing that the exhibition offers a fascinating journey through the history of metallurgy, from the early metalworking techniques, often considered magical, to its modern industrial applications. Mr. Sava noted that in the past, metalworkers were viewed as sorcerers due to their secret knowledge and extraordinary skills, which inspired Dr. Mariana Sîrbu to propose the exhibition title "Metallurgy - from Magic to Industry." He also mentioned that this exhibition is designed not only for specialists but for all those interested in history and science.

Gheorghe Postică, Head of the Archaeology Department, provided an extensive presentation on archaeological findings that illustrate early metallurgical practices in the Carpathian-Danubian-Pontic area. "These artifacts, dating from the Bronze and Iron Ages, showcase the craftsmanship of ancient artisans and the role of metals in shaping the social and economic hierarchies of those times," he mentioned.

Concluding the event, Dr. Mariana Sîrbu, an archaeology specialist, explained the complexity of metallurgical processes and the innovative techniques used in antiquity. She also highlighted the invaluable contribution of these discoveries to the understanding of technological evolution in Moldova, referencing the unique items on display, such as tools, weapons, and jewelry, all of which hold great historical significance.

The exhibition features approximately 2,200 metallurgical pieces, including works of art and utilitarian objects, tools, machines, and industrial components, each demonstrating advanced metalworking techniques. The fine details and precise craftsmanship of each item underscore the technological and artistic evolution of metallurgy throughout history.

The public is invited to explore this captivating journey through the history of metallurgy until September 26, 2025.