This astonishing mechanical galleon is a marvel of craftsmanship and engineering. It is a ‘nef’ – an extravagant metal table ornament in the shape of a ship. Made by Hans Schlottheim in German, in about 1585, the central figure of the galleon is the Holy Roman Emperor, surrounded by seven noblemen. When the clockwork mechanisms were wound, the ship moved forward over the table and they bowed in front of the Emperor. Miniature figures of the trumpeters and drummers on the deck moved in time to mu