munkaraóra

Munkaraóra is a term of Hungarian origin, typically referring to a specific type of clockwork mechanism or automaton. The word itself is a compound, with "Munkara" suggesting work or labor, and "óra" meaning clock or hour. Therefore, "munkaraóra" can be loosely translated as a "working clock" or "automaton clock."

Historically, these devices were complex mechanical creations designed to perform various functions beyond simply telling time. They often incorporated moving figures, elaborate gears, and sometimes even simulated musical performances or astronomical displays. The craftsmanship involved in creating a munkaraóra was highly prized, and these objects were often seen as status symbols and marvels of engineering.

While the term can broadly encompass any intricate clockwork device, it is most commonly associated with the elaborate automata produced during the Baroque and Rococo periods. These creations were not only functional timekeepers but also artistic masterpieces, showcasing the ingenuity and technical skill of their makers. Examples might include clocks with animated figures that strike bells, or devices that illustrate astronomical cycles. The term emphasizes the mechanical activity and the "work" the clock performs.