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Woodcut showing a Lodestone on board, floating in a bowl of water. It was possible to demonstrate in this way the fact that however placed it would come to rest with a north/south orientation (star-shaped objects are pointers)
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Woodcut showing a Lodestone on board, floating in a bowl of water. It was possible to demonstrate in this way the fact that however placed it would come to rest with a north/south orientation (star-shaped objects are pointers)
5311581 Woodcut showing a Lodestone on board, floating in a bowl of water. It was possible to demonstrate in this way the fact that however placed it would come to rest with a north/south orientation (star-shaped objects are pointers). From Athanasius Kircher Magnes sive de Arte Magnetica, Cologne, 1643. A lodestone is a naturally magnetized piece of the mineral magnetite. They are naturally occurring magnets, which can attract iron. Pieces of lodestone, suspended so they could turn, were the first magnetic compasses; Universal History Archive/UIG
Media ID 38276596
© Universal History Archive/UIG / Bridgeman Images
1643 Athanasius Kircher Bowl City Of Cologne Cologne Floating Magnets Mineral Navigation
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This woodcut print from 1643 showcases a lodestone floating in a bowl of water, demonstrating its innate ability to align itself with the Earth's magnetic field. The star-shaped object serves as a pointer, always coming to rest in a north/south orientation no matter how it is placed.
A lodestone is a naturally magnetized piece of the mineral magnetite, acting as one of the first magnetic compasses in history. This ancient instrument was crucial for navigation and exploration, guiding sailors across vast oceans with its mysterious magnetic properties.
Created by Athanasius Kircher and featured in his work "Magnes sive de Arte Magnetica," this woodcut print captures the wonder and intrigue surrounding magnets and their influence on our world. The intricate details and scientific accuracy depicted in this artwork reflect Kircher's dedication to understanding the natural forces at play.
As we gaze upon this historical image, we are reminded of the importance of curiosity and discovery in unlocking the secrets of our universe. The lodestone remains suspended in time, a timeless symbol of humanity's quest for knowledge and exploration.
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