Skip to main content
Pachelbel Canon Music Box
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Pachelbel Canon Music Box
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Pachelbel Canon Music Box

Artifact SeriesHead of State Gifts
Artifact IDFO.06152012-24-1
Object Type Box, Music
Gifter
Manufacturer (Founded 1865)
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Intended Recipient (American, 1964)
Medium wood, glass, metal, felt
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 2 3/4 in x W 5 3/4 in x D 3 3/4 in (7 cm x 14.6 cm x 9.5 cm )
Physical DescriptionWalnut wood music box with a lid that lifts to reveal the gold-colored mechanical workings that are under a pane of glass. On the base is a handle to wind it so it will play music. There is a gold-colored knob on the front that slides to the side to start the music. On the base are four gold-colored metal feet with felt pads.
Historical NoteReceived on the occasion of the 2012 NATO Summit held in Chicago, Illinois from May 20-May 21. When in use, the music box plays Canon by German composer Johann Pachelbel.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a foreign official to President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Executive Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts of State (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Related Event(s)
    Not on view
    Related Links