Travelers can wind back the clock and journey through time and cultures from around the world with Miami International Airport’s newest art exhibition, Around the World: Magical Music Boxes, which features a curated selection of over 80 antique and vintage music boxes from more than 16 countries.

This unique showcase, on temporary loan from the Miami-Dade Public Library System, is on display through May 2025 at MIA’s Mezzanine Gallery, located at the airport’s Concourse J international greeter’s lobby, 4th floor, pre-security (hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily).

The exhibition features items from the Anita Mull Music Boxes Collection, comprised of 216 music boxes donated to the Library’s Permanent Art Collection as part of the late longtime library staff member Anita Mull’s estate following her passing in 1987. The music boxes reflect her love of travel and music.

The music box collection, which spans from the late 19th century to the 1970s, includes cylinder, disc, animated, and novelty miniature musical devices. The manufactured and handmade musical pieces represent a diverse range of cultures primarily from Germany, Japan, and Switzerland, with others originating from Australia, Austria, China, Ecuador, England, France, Holland, India, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, and the United States.

The pieces were crafted by artisans skilled in woodwork, leatherwork, and metalwork. Inlaid designs, needlepoint work, and miniature reproduction paintings also decorate these charming works, which can all be appreciated for their art, mechanical components, and exquisite craftsmanship.

Originating in the 18th century, music boxes were initially luxury items for the elite and wealthy. Swiss watchmaker Antoine Favre-Salomon invented a small musical pocket watch—considered the first comb music box—using mechanical concepts similar to watchmaking. As manufacturing techniques improved, music boxes became more affordable and accessible to a broader audience. Over time, they have evolved from pure audio and visual enjoyment to home décor and functional everyday objects, from jewelry, cigar holders, powder puff boxes, and other vanity accessories to toys, home décor, drinkware, cherished souvenirs, and keepsakes with sentimental value.

Among the most delightful items in the exhibition is an intricate gilt brass automated bird box from the 1900s, which reveals a feathered bird when its hinged lid is opened. Other highlights include a miniature silver and gold beer stein, a brass and glass liquor decanter shaped like the Eiffel Tower, and a mid-century Thorens music box fitted with interchangeable metal discs that feature a selection of popular and timeless Christmas songs. Visitors will also be fascinated to see the intricate mechanisms of cylinder music boxes displayed under glass lids.

Around the World: Magical Music Boxes celebrates art and craftsmanship, taking airport visitors on a delightful trip through time and geography with these exquisite mechanics. The exhibition is organized by MIA Galleries, MIA’s art and exhibition program, in consultation with the Library’s Art Services and Exhibitions Division.