Music boxes embody the union of art and science; they are witnesses to the epoch of challenging innovation, a time when craftsmanship was as much about the function of objects as it was about creating eternal beauty.

“Music boxes” is one of the most extensive sections of the museum Collection repository. Melodious sound, multifarious decoration of cases, mesmerizing work of mechanisms – always arouses great interest in the audience.

The next issue of the column “Museum Stories” is devoted to the history of those musical self-playing items.

Antique music boxes – melodic treasures from the past – deserve one of the most honoured positions in the mysterious world of musical mechanical objects. In their magical melodies, music boxes tell the story of a rich canvas of history and human ingenuity.

In essence, music boxes are the epitome of precision and elegance, reflecting the course of history and scientific progress of their epoch along with the deep appreciation of art and beauty. What makes them particularly appealing is the unique combination of music and mechanics that transforms a seemingly daily necessity into a source of joy and fascination.

The original concept of a music box emerged in the 18^th century, and the first known examples appeared in Switzerland, the heart of precision mechanics. Swiss watchmakers, renowned for their craftsmanship, began exploring the idea of using their expertise to bring music to life. The first boxes exploited pinned metal cylinders with protruding pins that ran over the specially tuned teeth of a metal comb, creating a melody.

These humble beginnings paved the way for a worldwide obsession with music boxes. During the 19^th century, music boxes underwent significant changes. As technology advanced, so did the complexity of the music they could play. Early music boxes could play only one or two tunes, but by the mid-19^th century, interchangeable cylinders made it possible to play several pieces. Later cylinders were replaced by disks, which greatly simplified production.

Historically, music boxes have been important in society, demonstrating the status of the owner. The complexity of music box design and the variety of tunes they played became a symbol of sophistication and wealth, especially in the Victorian era. They were not just fashionable novelties; they were a reflection of culture and prestige.

Music boxes played a major role in popularizing music in the era before radio and phonographs. These musical mechanical objects brought music into houses, allowing people to enjoy concerts in their living rooms. This had a meaningful impact on the process of human communication and the formation of various social groups, changing the way people interacted and spent their leisure time.

Like the eternal ticking of an ancient clock or the constant ebb and flood, antique music boxes remind us of the transience of time and the beneficial interaction between science and art. Every note that music boxes play is a testament to human ingenuity and the need to create beauty around.