Name/Title
Puck Phonograph with Mermaid BaseEntry/Object ID
284Description
Germany, ca. 1905. An extraordinary cylinder phonograph in Art Nouveau style – sound and art in perfect harmony
This rare object is a so-called Puck phonograph – a fully functional cylinder phonograph made in Germany, probably around 1905. The device is technically independent, compact in design, and combines playful aesthetics with reliable playback performance.
Origin and Terminology
The term "Puck" does not refer to a brand, but to a specific type of construction: Puck phonographs are characterized by their space-saving design, an external spring motor, and often highly decorative cast bases. They were intended for private use – usually as an affordable alternative to larger tabletop machines – and were primarily sold in France, Germany, and Belgium.
Features of the Device
Decorative cast-iron base in the shape of a stylized mermaid with flowing Art Nouveau hair and floral elements. This detailed design was adapted for the French market.
Colorful metal horn in vibrant pink with black ornamental lines – preserved in original condition.
Side-mounted spring-driven motor
Standard cylinder mandrel (2-minute format)
Function and Significance
Puck phonographs like this model offered affordable access to the world of recorded sound, without compromising on artistic design. Thanks to their ornate construction, they became true decorative pieces – technically capable, yet clearly designed to make an impression in a salon or living space.
The Example at the Edisonium
The unit exhibited at the Edisonium Mariazell is an especially beautiful example of this type. It retains its original paintwork, the fully intact mermaid base, and an authentic horn. The device is operational and represents a moment in time when technology, craftsmanship, and market strategy were uniquely intertwined.
