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The Marly Machine, 18th century
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The Marly Machine, 18th century
The Marly Machine, 18th century. Louis XIV of France had this machine constructed on the banks of the Seine to pump water from the river to his chateaux at Versailles and Marly. It was responsible for the gushing fountains and other water features at Versailles. The flow of the river was harnessed to turn 14 paddlewheels which then powered over 200 pumps which forced water up a network of pipes to an aqueduct at Louveciennes. This represented a vertical rise of 500 feet. The Marly machine was engineered by Arnold de Ville and built by Rennequin Sualem and is thought to have been the largest system of integrated machinery ever assembled at the time it was completed in 1684. Its construction had taken 30 years. The machine remained in use until 1817, after which it was rebuilt and modified
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Complex Complexity Engineering Hydraulics Ingenuity King Louis Xiv Of France King Of France Le Roi Soleil Louis Dieudonn Louis Dieudonne Louis Xiv Machine Machinery Mechanism Paddle Wheel Pump The Sun King Water Supply Yvelines Marly Le Roi Print Collector4 Ville
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The Marly Machine - A Marvel of 18th Century Engineering
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This print showcases the remarkable Marly Machine, a technological wonder of the 18th century. Commissioned by Louis XIV, the Sun King of France, this colossal mechanism was constructed on the serene banks of the Seine River to supply water to his opulent chateaux at Versailles and Marly. The ingenuity behind this complex system is awe-inspiring. Fourteen paddlewheels harnessed the power of the flowing river, activating over 200 pumps that forced water through an intricate network of pipes. This hydraulic marvel enabled water to ascend an astonishing vertical rise of 500 feet, ultimately reaching an aqueduct at Louveciennes. Engineered by Arnold de Ville and built by Rennequin Sualem, this grand machine stands as a testament to their skill and vision. Upon its completion in 1684 after three decades of construction, it became one of history's largest integrated machinery systems. For more than a century, these ingenious mechanisms brought life to Versailles' enchanting fountains and other mesmerizing water features. Although decommissioned in 1817, it was later rebuilt and modified for continued use. As we gaze upon this vibrant engraving from Heritage Images, we are transported back in time to witness not only France's technological prowess but also Louis XIV's unwavering commitment to creating beauty through innovation. The Marly Machine remains a symbol of human achievement and serves as a reminder that even centuries ago, our ancestors possessed boundless creativity when harnessing nature's forces for their benefit.
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