Musée des automates, Museum dedicated to mechanical automata and scale models in the historic center of La Rochelle, France.
The museum displays a diverse collection of mechanical figures and automata dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, presented in animated display cases with elaborate settings that demonstrate various daily tasks and theatrical scenes.
Established in 1984, the museum required over thirty years of research to assemble its unique collection in France, featuring prestigious pieces from renowned manufacturers such as J.A.F. and Decamps, representing the golden age of mechanical artistry.
The institution showcases traditional French mechanical craftsmanship through automata created by specialized artisans whose works were considered complete works of art, combining technical precision with entertainment value for audiences of their era.
Located at 12-14 rue de la Désirée, the museum operates daily from 10:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 18:00, extending hours until 19:00 during July and August, with adult admission fees of 12 euros and reduced rates for children.
New automata are added to the permanent exhibition annually, allowing visitors to discover renewed displays within an 1800 square meter space containing over 500 exhibited pieces enhanced by sound and light animations that bring the mechanical figures to life.
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