First Philosophy, or Ontology (1736) - Page 29

This engraving serves as a visual companion to Christian Wolff's philosophical arguments. It contains eighteen numbered geometrical and mechanical diagrams. Figure 1 displays parallel lines intersected by a transversal line. Figure 2 presents a parallelogram containing internal diagonal lines. Figure 3 is a simple horizontal line segment with points marked A, C, and B. Figure 4 shows a triangle with an interior angle marked O. Figure 5 is a mechanical diagram of a balance scale with two pans hanging from a beam: the parts are labeled with letters A through E. Figure 7.a provides a complex three-dimensional projection involving a pyramid. Figure 7.b shows a crescent shape within a circle: this may relate to astronomical observations or the geometry of spheres. Figure 9 shows a partial triangle and rectangle. Figure 10 is a hexagon with curved sides. Figure 11 illustrates a circle with a radius. Figure 13 is a detailed mechanical drawing of a piston or syringe: it represents the application of mathematical principles to physical instruments. Figures 14, 15, and 16 show various triangles and quadrilaterals used to demonstrate geometric transformations. Figure 17 and 18 show arcs and quadrants of circles.

The left edge of the plate is partially cut off. This obscures portions of Figure 1, Figure 4, Figure 9, Figure 14, and Figure 17.

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

Figure 3.

Figure 4.

Figure 5.

Figure 7.a.

Figure 7.b.

Figure 9.

Figure 10.

Figure 11.

Figure 13.

Figure 14.

Figure 15.

Figure 16.

Figure 17.

Figure 18.