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Assaying copper: Furnaces (1, 4), ore (3), bellows (5), and aeolipile (6) to supply
Filename: 917_05_009636.jpg
Size: 2410 x 2635 (3.3MB)
Date: 26th March 2014
Source: Universal Images Group (UIG)
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Universal Images Group (UIG)
Assaying copper: Furnaces (1, 4), ore (3), bellows (5), and aeolipile (6) to supply
Assaying copper: Furnaces (1, 4), ore (3), bellows (5), and aeolipile (6) to supply draught to furnaces. Pot in which flux is prepared (8). From 1683 English edition of Lazarus Ercker Beschreibung allerfurnemisten mineralischen Ertzt- und Berckwercksarten originally published in Prague in 1574. Copperplate engraving
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Media ID 9752449
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
1574 1683 Allerfurnemisten Assaying Bellows Berckwercksarten Beschreibung Copper Copperplate Draught Edition Ercker Ertzt Furnaces Lazarus Metal Metallurgy Mineralischen Originally Prague Prepared Published Supply Aeolipile Flux
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate process of assaying copper, as depicted in an English edition of Lazarus Ercker's renowned book from 1683. The engraving, originally published in Prague in 1574, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of metallurgy during that era. In this image, we are presented with various elements essential to the copper assaying process. The furnaces (1 and 4) take center stage, emanating intense heat required for smelting. Adjacent to them is a pile of ore (3), waiting to be transformed into valuable metal through meticulous craftsmanship. To ensure optimal combustion within the furnaces, bellows (5) can be seen strategically placed nearby. These ingenious devices provide a continuous supply of air by harnessing human or mechanical power. One intriguing addition to this scene is the aeolipile (6), an ancient steam-powered device used here to generate draught specifically for these furnaces. Its presence highlights both technological advancements and inventive problem-solving methods employed by early metallurgists. Further along, we notice a pot (8) where flux – a substance aiding in separating impurities from molten metal – is being prepared. This vessel plays an integral role in achieving high-quality copper output. Overall, this meticulously detailed copperplate engraving not only serves as historical documentation but also provides us with insight into the complex processes involved in extracting and refining copper during that period.
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