Giovanni Branca (1571-1640)
Le machine. Rome: Giacomo Mascardi for Giacomo Manuci, 1629.
First edition of this rare treatise on machinery. Among the fine series of 77 woodcuts is the first printed representation of a steam turbine, first described by Leonardo in the Codex Leicester. It shows a pair of turbine-operated mortars which is driven by propelling steam which issues from the mouth of a bronze head; it marks the earliest depiction of the use of steam as motive power. Numerous other machines are shown, including a reversing hoisting engine. With the 'Imprimatur' on the verso of the title. Dibner Heralds of Science 175; Wellcome 1036; Norman 333.

3 parts in one volume, quarto (202 x 152mm). Engraved title-page, 77 full-page woodcuts (a number of headlines and signatures trimmed, a few corners neatly restored, some marginal wormholes sometimes affecting headlines, a few repaired, larger repaired wormtracks into printed area on approximately 15 leaves). Modern pasteboard, spine ink lettered (lightly soiled, small wormholes).

Erased stamp to title verso and verso of final leaf.

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