Music Box

A music box is a popular 19th century musical instrument that produced sound automatically. The rhythm or the tune was produced by the set of pins that was incorporated with revolving disc or cylinder. This was the simplest version of the musical box available during that era. Another version of the music box had tiny drums and bells. The size of the musical box varied from that of a hat box to a large furniture-size box; however, the tabletop version was more popular. There were coin-operated music boxes, manufactured in Switzerland, which were capable of producing more than one tune. These were placed at railway stations and amusement parks.

A music box has certain distinct elements such as the bedpan, ratchet lever, spring motor, comb, and cylinder. The foundation of the music box is the bedpan on which the other pieces are fixed. Generally, these elements are cased in a wooden box that is beautifully decorated with inlaid work or carving to direct the attention of the buyer. Today, music boxes can be said to have been replaced by the juke box.

Some music boxes are still sold as antiques and are sought after by collectors. These are also used to keep jewellery or as a storage box. The rustic and antique effect of the music box makes it more precious for collectors.