The Mechanical Christmas Mountain at the Museum of European Cultures: A Piece of Ore Mountain Tradition in Berlin
Step into the world of a unique holiday tradition at the Museum of European Cultures in Berlin. This Christmas season, discover the magic of the Mechanical Christmas Mountain, an exquisite piece of folk art from the Ore Mountains. This masterpiece, which narrates the story of Christ’s life through intricate, moving scenes, has fascinated generations with its rich detail and artistic beauty.
A Masterpiece with History: The Christmas Mountain by Max Vogel
The Mechanical Christmas Mountain was crafted in the 19th century by Max Vogel, a master painter from Neuwürschnitz in the Ore Mountains. Construction began in 1885, inspired by both biblical imagery and the Ore Mountains' local Christmas traditions. For Vogel, this piece was truly a lifelong work; he poured his heart and skill into designing and building the complex mechanics who bring it to life. Today, visitors can watch as over 300 hand-carved figures move, each crafted to recreate scenes from Christ's life.
Moving Scenes: The Magic of Mechanical Art
The Christmas Mountain’s underlying mechanics are a marvel. Vogel’s attention to detail extended not only to the figures but also to their movements. Using an elaborate system of gears, levers, and pulleys, he created a lively world where shepherds tend their sheep, the Three Wise Men follow the star, and the Holy Family flees to Egypt. This captivating mechanism brings the mountain to life, enchanting both children and adults.
A Masterpiece Revived: The Restoration by Karl-Heinz Fischer
After Max Vogel's death, the Christmas Mountain was neglected and stored in an attic for many decades. In 1987, Karl-Heinz Fischer, a Berlin-based orchestral musician, discovered this forgotten treasure. Fischer took on the challenging restoration, as many parts were damaged or missing. With the help of Saxon woodcarvers, he managed to reconstruct missing figures and restore the original mechanics, preserving Vogel’s vision and legacy for future generations.
Ore Mountain Tradition: Art in Motion for the Holidays
The Christmas Mountain reflects a holiday tradition deeply rooted in the Ore Mountains, dating back to the 19th century. During Christmas, families would set up elaborate “mountains” that narrated the life of Christ. Vogel's Christmas Mountain is one of the few surviving movable artworks of this kind, combining folk art, religious symbolism, and technical skill. This piece is now a beloved part of the Museum of European Cultures' permanent collection, complemented by interactive media stations where visitors can explore each scene and learn about the mechanisms that make it all possible.
Nearby Sight: Museums in Dahlem
Located in Berlin’s Dahlem Museum Center, the Mechanical Christmas Mountain shares its space with other treasures of global and European art. Just a short walk away, the Ethnological Museum and the Museum of Asian Art offer fascinating insights into art and culture from around the world. Visitors can also stroll through the nearby Botanical Garden for a refreshing break from the city’s bustle.
At a Glance
Address, Opening Hours, …
What: Mechanical Christmas Mountain at the Museum of European Cultures Berlin
Where: Museum of European Cultures, Arnimallee 25, 14195 Berlin
When: Permanent Exhibition
Opening Hours: Closed on Mon. & Tue.; Wed., Thu., Fri.: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat. & Sun.: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: €10, reduced €5