Theatre of Instruments and Machines

FRANCISCVS BEROALDVS

TO THE READER.

Most affectionate reader, since utility and delight are proposed as the goal of all human sciences, I thought it fair if, to these machines whose figures bring no small pleasure, I added some clear explanation of them, so that those who are delighted to receive not only books for the adornment of their museums, but also for their own benefit, might be able to enjoy these. Wherefore, if you are helped by this labor of mine, I will not only render these things which pertain to the machines more lucid, but I will also briefly explain those which pertain to the theory of mathematics, not in a vulgar way, but with God favoring, in such a manner that not only those who do not seem entirely incapable of these arts might be able to perceive something quickly, but also that the learned might be delighted. But, lest I keep you longer, you will observe these things if you wish to attain the meaning of my declaration: namely, that I have established the East on the outer margin, the West on the opposite and inner one, the North at the head, and the South on the opposing part, and likewise often use a certain measure in place of letters. If I have handled these things less elegantly, you will excuse me, for if eloquence is absent in treating these matters, it is nevertheless not required, and if it is present, it is not despised. But so that you may better understand these things, see the next page from which you will understand the reason of what has been said, and from these you will receive fruit with delight.