Tablet 50
1828
Think of this as a 19th-century YouTube tutorial for civil engineers. Created by Francesco Cardinali in 1828, this detailed plate breaks down the construction of a foundation or retaining wall, featuring sharp wooden stakes driven into the earth like teeth. The bottom diagrams offer an 'under the hood' look, showing how ropes and guy-wires were used to hold up walls and how foundations were laid out. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the era's love for geometric precision and practical science, where every beam and rope was calculated by hand long before computer-aided design existed.
- Technique
- Engraving
Views: 3