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Case study

A Hidden Musical Surprise

Discover the tiny hidden musical box within an inkstand.

A silver inkstand in the form of a rowing boat
Inkstand (RCIN 49883) ©

Our conservators have restored a tiny musical movement hidden inside a 19th-century silver inkstand. Metal specialists working on the inkstand noticed that the central seal was unusually heavy, and closer examination revealed the miniscule mechanism hidden in its base. The inkstand is the shape of a rowing boat with entwined snakes at either end.

Find out more about the inkstand

The movement was sent to our in-house horological conservators, who replaced and repaired several tiny parts. Special tools were required to accommodate the object's miniscule scale.

Watch this short film to hear the full story of the mechanism's restoration – and hear it play its music once again.

©

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Object featured in this case study

Find out more in our Collection Online
Johann Christian Sick (1766-1824)
Inkstand c. 1810
    RCIN 49883

    A parcel gilt inkstand in the form of a rowing boat with planking and a central rib, with a pierced gallery at either side and entwined gilt snakes at either end, their coils forming supports for the boat. Fitted with a central rectangular well of cast stiff leaves, the flat lid with an oval reserve in which sits an oval gold fob seal with a lyre-...

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    Processes used in this case study

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    Cog being picked up by tweasers
    Process
    Repair
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    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.