On
folio 98r of Manuscript B, Leonardo drew a warship called the
Scorpion because of its resemblance to the arachnid. Leonardo studied
ancient ships and was inspired by the scorpion’s fatal hook-like
stinger. An enormous mechanical scythe placed in the center is
activated by a large weight that, once thrown into the sea, triggers
the movement. This scythe should be able to inflict considerable
damage and the circular platform on which it rests allows it to
rotate 360 degrees and attack from any direction. The ship is
equipped with several oars to make it fast and there are no sails,
which would hinder the action during the attacks. Beneath the scythe
are two useful wedge-shaped structures to protect the sailors from
attacks coming from above. These shields are covered in moist hides
to protect against the shots of incendiary weapons.
Machines
Escorpio Boat
Manuscript B, folio 5v