Continuing to Unravel the Mysteries of Mystery Clocks

This week I began researching for object labels and writing interpretive panel text for the upcoming mystery clock exhibit. I used a previously drafted exhibition outline as a guide to fill in some of the story and concepts with physical text to express the ideas of the exhibit. Much of my work this week was simply translating my research into easily understandable text to be put on display with the objects.

An example of a Turtle Clock from the Museum collection. 

Because I am now refining my research and looking into the history of specific objects, I had to look closely for particular details. While reading up on French inventor of the turtle clock, Grollier de Serviererè, I had the opportunity to look at an original book published by his grandson in 1733 on his grandfather’s work with detailed illustrations of his magnificent clocks. Unfortunately the text was in French, however, another book in the library has translated excerpts from this very same publication. It was fascinating to hold such a unique piece of history in my hands. I find learning more about the lives of inspired clockmakers such as Grollier de Servierè and Robert-Houdin extremely fascinating and I can not wait to tell their story in the finished exhibit.

Alison, Juniata College
Exhibits Intern