The majority of the Museum’s silver and metalware collections, including jewellery and automata, are all currently in store. When housed in this gallery they will become a bright, glittering box of treasures that set the scene for the performance of the Silver Swan. Visitors will then move into the splendour of the central picture gallery to experience the iconic Silver Swan. Added interpretation via text, interactives and video footage will reveal the Swan’s history and mechanism. Special lighting will be installed for the performance of the Swan, adding to the theatrics of the moment. This will enhance the performance, appealing to audiences of all ages.

Joséphine Bowes’ father was a watchmaker and this aspect of her life is reflected in her fondness for mechanical objects. The Silver Swan has become the Museum’s icon, but the Museum has many other charming and delightful automata.

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