An oval emblem framed by ornate baroque scrollwork. Inside the oval, a man uses a long lever to lift a large rectangular stone block. Above him is the motto: "Art is greater than strength".

Theater of Machines,

or

Stage of Lifting Tools

or machines to transport

and lift a load.

The First Chapter.

§. 1.

A large ornamental drop-cap 'O' featuring interlaced scrollwork patterns.Although much has been said and written by many regarding the excellent utility, inventions, divisions, and types of noble mechanics, there will always be much left to report that can be read with pleasure and benefit. Since we have now set out to write about those machines by which large and enormous loads can be moved and also brought from one place to another, and where such a load has often been managed by a few, or indeed even by a single person, which without this mechanical art a whole country would not have been able to accomplish, and furthermore, through such machines most mechanics have made themselves immortal and, as it were, wonders of the world; it will not be useless if we present in this part, instead of an introduction or preparation, a discourse on mechanics. And although one could accomplish this with one's own words, one has nevertheless preferred to use the beautiful and well-executed discourse of the mathematician and mechanic of his time, the excellent and curious Conrad Dasypodius, which he [entitled]: Heron

Theater of Machines.