BRANCA, Giovanni (1571-1645) - Le Machine. Volume nuovo et di molto artificio da fare effetti. Rome: ad istanza di ...

BRANCA, Giovanni (1571-1645) - Le Machine. Volume nuovo et di molto artificio da fare effetti. Rome: ad istanza di Giacomo Marcucci, per Giacomo Mascardi, 1629. First edition of a scarce work on machines. 'This treatise on machinery is illustrated by 77 full-page plates, the most famous of which shows the first representation of a steam turbine as well as the first application of steam to useful work', states Dibner. 'Although a steam jet is used, with its kinetic energy applied to the vanes of a turbine rather than the expansive power of steam as applied to later engines, yet the very use of steam in motive power is of historical significance. The turbine shaft is shown geared down and ends in pestles for pounding materials in mortars. Many other machines are shown, including a reversing hoisting engine'. Dibner 175. The present copy belonged to William Chadwell Mylne, whom was responsable for the lay out of a large part of Islington during the 1820s. 4to (223 x 154mm). Engraved title and 77 full-page woodcuts (lightly browned, occasional light staining). Later speckled calf, red speckled edges (somewhat worn, joings splitting). Provenance: William Chadwell Mylne (another copy of the same work was auctiones at Christie's in 2003 with Mylne's bookplate. Engineer and architect, he was controller of the New River Company, laying out a large part of Islington during the 1820s; 1781-1863, gift inscription dated 1820 to): - Watt (the renown James Watt died in August 1819) .