The Forster Notebook II

f. 53r

brass bell

Leonardo wrote these words in mirror script. The Italian phrase is "campana d'ottone."

Description of Drawings

The top illustration shows a detailed study of a bell hanging from a horizontal wooden beam. A complex system of mechanical parts is attached to the left side. It features a series of joined arms. One arm ends in a hammer or striker that rests against the sound bow of the bell. This design appears to be for an automated bell ringing device or a mechanism to strike the bell without swinging it. It shows Leonardo's interest in automation and articulated parts applied to signal systems.

In the middle left, a small circular diagram contains a cross shaped figure. This is likely a schematic view of the inside of the bell where the clapper is suspended, or a plan of the bell's crown.

To the middle right, a sketch shows the crown or loops at the top of a bell. These parts are used for hanging the bell. Leonardo focuses on the decorative and functional curves of the bronze casting.

The bottom illustration is a large red chalk sketch of a vertical screw or spindle mechanism. It consists of a central threaded pole resting on a flat base. It has two horizontal arms or levers near the top. This could represent a screw jack for lifting heavy bells. It might also be part of a mold making machine used in a bell foundry.

bell (campana), brass (ottone), screw (vite), mechanism (meccanismo)