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ALCINOUS HANDMILL / C17TH
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ALCINOUS HANDMILL / C17TH
Alcinous handmill in operation. Date: 17th century
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20156083
© Bubblepunk
C17th Corn Flour Grinding Handle Human Machines Mills Operation Powered Sheaf Windmill Alcinous
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 17th century print depicts an Alcinous handmill in operation, a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the past. The Alcinous handmill, named after the legendary Phaeacian king from Homer's Odyssey, was a type of human-powered mill commonly used for grinding corn or wheat into flour. The image reveals a man diligently turning the large wooden handle, which is connected to a series of gears and cogs within the mill. The millstone, a large circular grinding surface, is turned by the mechanism, reducing the grain between it and an adjacent stone to a fine consistency. A sheaf of corn is visible at the base of the mill, ready to be ground. The Alcinous handmill was an essential component of rural life during the 17th century, particularly in areas where access to wind or water mills was limited. Its simplicity and portability made it an ideal solution for small-scale grain processing. This print offers a fascinating glimpse into the industrial processes of the past, showcasing the human effort and innovation that shaped the agricultural landscape of the time. The intricate details of the mill's design, from the gears and cogs to the millstone and handle, are beautifully rendered in this print. The artist's skillful use of shading and perspective adds depth and texture, making it an engaging and educational piece for anyone interested in the history of industry, machines, and human-powered technology.
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