Instrumentorum Collection

Praetorius, Michael (1571-1621)

Instruments for Dissections, illustration from De Humani Corporis Fabrica
867832 Instruments for Dissections, illustration from De Humani Corporis Fabrica (engraving) by Vesalius, Andreas (1514-64); Private Collection; eArchives Charmet; Belgian, out of copyright

Engraving of worm-driven fire squirt
Engraving of people operating a large worm-driven fire squirt mounted on two wheels, to put out a fire in a burning building, reproduced from Besoni, Theatrum Instrumentorum et Machinarum, 1568

Annulorum by Johann Dryander. Colored engraving
Johann Dryander (1500-1560). German anatomist and astronomer. Annulorum. Title cover, 1537. Colored engraving

Annulorum by Johann Dryander
Johann Dryander (1500-1560). German anatomist and astronomer. Annulorum. Title cover, 1537

Engraving of worm-driven fire squirt
Engraving of people operating a large worm-driven fire squirt mounted on two wheels, to put out a fire in a burning building, reproduced from Besoni, Theatrum Instrumentorum et Machinarum, 1568

Theatrum anatomicum van Leidse Academie, 1609. Jacob Marcus, 1609

Planimeter used in conjunction with a set square for surveying. From Levinus Hulsius Instrumentorum Mechanicorum, Frankfort-am-Main, 1605. Engraving

Surveying: Top: measuring angles using a quadrant. Bottom: obtaining levels and altitudes using Hulsiuss planimeter. From Levinus Hulsius Instrumentorum Mechanicorum, Frankfort-am-Main, 1605

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"Instrumentorum: Unveiling the Tools of Discovery in the Renaissance" Step into the fascinating world of instrumentorum, where innovation and exploration flourished during the Renaissance. One prominent figure who left an indelible mark was Michael Praetorius (1571-1621), a German composer and music theorist whose contributions extended beyond his musical prowess. Praetorius's insatiable curiosity led him to delve into various fields, including anatomy. His meticulous attention to detail is evident in his work "Instruments for Dissections, " an illustration from De Humani Corporis Fabrica. This masterpiece showcases intricate tools used by anatomists during dissections, revealing their commitment to unraveling the mysteries of human anatomy. Another remarkable depiction comes from Johann Dryander's "Annulorum. " Through colored engravings, Dryander captures the beauty and complexity of instruments utilized in medical procedures. These images serve as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship involved in advancing surgical techniques during that era. One particularly intriguing invention showcased is the worm-driven fire squirt, depicted through captivating engravings. This innovative device employed worms' natural movements to create pressure for extinguishing fires—an ingenious solution born out of scientific experimentation. The Theatrum anatomicum van Leidse Academie (1609) by Jacob Marcus provides us with a glimpse into early academic settings dedicated to anatomical studies. It stands as a testament to how these institutions fostered collaboration among scholars eager to push boundaries and expand knowledge. Beyond medicine, instrumentorum encompassed diverse disciplines such as surveying. Levinus Hulsius's planimeter used alongside a set square revolutionized land measurement techniques—a vital tool for mapping territories accurately. Surveying also relied on other instruments like quadrants for measuring angles or obtaining levels and altitudes—essential components in charting uncharted territories or constructing grand architectural wonders. As we explore this captivating world of instrumentorum, we encounter the name Michael Praetorius once again.