The First Book of Mechanical Mathematical Instruments

THE PRINCIPLE OF AN INSTRUMENT DERIVED FROM THE TRISPASTUS, VERY EASY FOR DEMOLISHING ANY WALLS OR RAISING WEIGHTS WITH MINIMAL LABOR.

An engraved plate features technical diagrams and a scene demonstrating a mechanical device.

At the top left is a detailed diagram of a mechanical jack. It consists of a vertical screw within a wooden frame, operated by a worm gear mechanism at the base. A pulley and rope are attached to the side. The top of the screw is capped with a crescent-shaped rest.

At the top right is a triangular component, likely a support frame or a notched wedge used in conjunction with the device.

The bottom half of the plate shows the machine in a practical application. A man stands in a rugged landscape next to a tree, turning a crank. The crank is connected by a rope to a version of the mechanical jack described above. The jack is angled against a massive stone wall, which is depicted with large cracks and starting to collapse under the pressure. To the right of the wall is a sturdy, circular stone fortification or tower.