Madrid
Completed

Rarezas de colección: An Exhibition of Telefónica's Technological Heritage at Espacio Fundación Telefónica

Explore unique communication artifacts and specialized historical work that shaped the evolution of telecommunications technology.

The 'Rarezas de colección' exhibition at Espacio Fundación Telefónica invites visitors to delve into the fascinating, lesser-known pieces of Telefónica's Technological Heritage. Beyond typical phones and switchboards, discover a diverse array of items that illustrate the significant human effort and specialized labor in establishing decades of telephone communication. This unique display highlights the importance of preserving history and documenting the evolution of communication technology.

About Rarezas de colección at Espacio Fundación Telefónica in Madrid

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Rarezas de colección at Espacio Fundación Telefónica in Madrid

Exhibition summary

This exhibition showcases 'collection rarities' from Telefónica's Technological Heritage, presenting unusual and diverse objects beyond typical switchboards and telephones. It highlights the specialized work involved in telecommunications and the history of technology.

Curatorial context

The exhibition 'Rarezas de colección' (Collection Rarities) aims to bring to light the lesser-known but essential pieces within Telefónica's Technological Heritage. These are not just the common switchboards or telephones but hundreds of diverse items with varied functionalities, some even difficult to identify within the telecommunications domain. The display features these peculiar and sometimes aesthetically striking objects to illustrate the significant human effort and specialized labor involved in establishing and improving telephone communication over decades. Beyond the objects themselves, the exhibition also serves as a reflection on the importance of preserving and documenting history, emphasizing the role of the Laboratorio General de Ensayos (General Testing Laboratory), established in 1926. This laboratory was crucial for verifying the quality of materials used in the company's work. The exhibition showcases pieces analyzed by this lab, such as rheostats and microscopes used for electrical and material testing, as well as equipment like carbide lamps and candlestick holders used by 'Empalmadores' (jointers) and 'Celadores de Telefónica' (Telephone Watchmen). It delves into the training and strict requirements for these roles, underscoring the commitment to communication secrecy and the company's early focus on standardization and a corporate culture.

Admission and ticket notes

The exhibition is open from Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 20:00, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 11:00 to 20:00. Admission information is not explicitly detailed but is implied to be part of the general museum access.

Rarezas de colección key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Rarezas de colección at Espacio Fundación Telefónica in Madrid

Venue
Espacio Fundación Telefónica
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
Sep 18, 2015 – Mar 13, 2016
Artist line / attribution
Information not currently available
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