Designs for Hydraulic Devices
Hydraulic and Lifting DevicesMechanical Device with Gear SystemThe Allegory of FireWinter Landscape with CherubsCartoon for The School of Athens (Detail)Designs for Hydraulic DevicesNapoleon’s Waterloo GlovesEcce HomoChrist from The Last SupperThe Holy FamilyThe Earthly Paradise with the Creation of EveMechanical Studies

Designs for Hydraulic DevicesLeonardo da Vinci

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These sketches (c. 1500) illustrate Leonardo’s exploration of water-lifting systems and fluid mechanics. Through pumps, valves, and gear-driven mechanisms, he envisioned efficient ways to control and elevate water. Merging engineering with nature, these studies highlight his role as a pioneer of hydraulics during the Renaissance.