Home > Animals > Birds > Gruiformes > Rallidae > Black Rail
Germain Sommeillers compressed air rock drill used in excavation of the Mont Cenis Tunnel, 1874
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Germain Sommeillers compressed air rock drill used in excavation of the Mont Cenis Tunnel, 1874
Germain Sommeillers compressed air rock drill used in the excavation of the Mont Cenis Tunnel, 1874. The Mont Cenis Tunnel was built between 1857 and 1871 to provide a rail link beneath the Alps connecting France and Italy. The 8 mile-long tunnel was the first rock tunnel of its type and represented a landmark achievement in civil engineering. Its construction owed much to the pneumatic drill invented by Sommeiller, the tunnels engineer
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14841023
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Alps Civil Engineering Construction Drill Drilling Element Germain Hard Labour Labourer Railway Tunnel The Alps Tunnel Tunneling Underground Workman Workmen Ann Ronan Pictures Compressed Air Mont Cenis Tunnel Pneumatic Drill Wood Engraving
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Birds
> Gruiformes
> Rallidae
> Black Rail
> Animals
> Mammals
> Cercopithecidae
> Drill
> Architecture
> Tunnels
> Popular Themes
> Railway Posters
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the groundbreaking invention of Germain Sommeiller's compressed air rock drill, which played a pivotal role in the excavation of the Mont Cenis Tunnel in 1874. The tunnel itself was an extraordinary feat of engineering, spanning eight miles beneath the majestic Alps to connect France and Italy. In this image, we see a group of hardworking men, their faces marked by determination and sweat, as they laboriously operate these pneumatic drills deep underground. The tunneling process required immense physical strength and endurance from these skilled workmen who dedicated themselves to this arduous task. Sommeiller's innovative creation revolutionized civil engineering by introducing compressed air technology into rock drilling. This powerful tool allowed for faster and more efficient excavation, propelling progress forward on this ambitious project. It is remarkable to witness how human ingenuity combined with sheer perseverance can conquer even the most formidable natural obstacles. The monochrome aesthetic adds a sense of timelessness to this photograph, transporting us back to the nineteenth century when such grand endeavors were undertaken with unwavering determination. As we gaze upon this historic scene captured through wood engraving techniques, we are reminded of the indomitable spirit that drives mankind's pursuit of progress. This print serves as a testament not only to Germain Sommeiller's genius but also to all those unsung heroes who labored tirelessly behind-the-scenes in shaping our world through their dedication and hard work.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
