Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) has announced the acquisition of a rare 16th-century automaton clock, known as "The Rooster’s Crow." This marks the first timepiece made before the 1600s to join the DIA's permanent collection. The clock will be displayed starting October 29, 2024.

"The Rooster’s Crow," created around 1585, stands approximately 24 inches tall and features a detailed gilt copper and brass case with engraved silver panels. It is topped by a lifelike rooster automaton that flaps its wings and opens its golden beak to mimic crowing every quarter hour. Although its exact origins are unknown, it is believed to have been crafted in either Augsburg or Nuremberg due to similarities in clockmaking techniques and metalworking style.

DIA Director Salvador Salort-Pons expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition: “We are excited to acquire this rare clock for our permanent collection, as it represents the height of 16th century artistic skill and technological innovation.” He added that visitors would have the chance to see it during monthly demonstrations.

The clock will be exhibited in the museum’s Northern Renaissance gallery. This location was chosen intentionally to foster dialogue between the clock and other Northern European art masterpieces, such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder’s "The Wedding Dance," providing insight into Renaissance court culture and technological progress.

Special programming will also feature "The Rooster's Crow," allowing visitors to observe it in operation during necessary maintenance winding each month. This initiative aims to bring movement and sound into the Renaissance galleries for an immersive experience of early modern craftsmanship.

Key attributes of "The Rooster's Crow" include:

- A fully operational original mechanical system, which is exceptionally rare for clocks from this period

- A naturalistic rooster automaton that crows every quarter hour

- Miniature figures representing seven prince-electors of the Holy Roman Empire parading around an enthroned emperor hourly

- Side panels guarded by busts of mustachioed soldiers wearing helmets typical of sixteenth-century fashion

- Four lion figures supporting its base

- Exquisite metalwork combining gilt copper, brass, and engraved silver

This acquisition enhances DIA's world-class collection by offering exceptional opportunities for visitors to engage with art and technology across different centuries.