In the history of horology and mechanics, the name of the Swiss master Henri Maillardet (1745–1830) holds a place of distinct prominence. Although he is mentioned less frequently in specialized studies than his illustrious contemporaries, his works amaze with their exquisite detailing, elegant decoration, and ingenious mechanisms.

Maillardet created extraordinary automata that seamlessly combined flawless engineering with the art of fine jewelry. Among his most famous creations is a writing automaton, unique for its time, as well as an entire series of mechanical animals and insects: mice, lizards, frogs, snakes, and caterpillars. The casings of these miniature mechanisms were decorated with gold, enamel, pearls, and precious gemstones.

In the museum Collection this animalistic direction of the artisan’s work is represented by two exceedingly rare exhibits: the "Chinese silkworm automaton" and the "Siberian Mouse". Additionally, the exposition features elegant singing bird cage clocks with mechanical waterfalls, which are closely associated with Maillardet’s name.

We invite you to discover the biography of this outstanding master in our new feature, where you can learn how his inventions inspired the 21st-century cinema and explore the highly complex, spring-driven mechanism of antique automata.