After 250 years, an 18th-century mechanical volcano erupts to life

The idea originated with Sir William Hamilton, the British ambassador to Naples and Sicily from 1765 to 1800, who was deeply fascinated by volcanoes. Blending art with early mechanical ingenuity, Hamilton designed a device that could visually simulate volcanic activity, bringing science and spectacle together in a single creation.

Inspired by the 1771 watercolor Night view of a current of lava by British-Italian artist Pietro Fabris, Hamilton's concept relied on light and motion to replicate glowing lava and eruptive bursts. Although no record confirms that it was ever built in his time, a detailed sketch preserved in the Bordeaux Municipal Library provided enough guidance for a modern reconstruction.

Reviving a Forgotten Experiment

Dr. Richard Gillespie, Senior Curator in the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, proposed reviving Hamilton's long-dormant idea and oversaw the project's completion.

"It is fitting that after 250 years exactly, our students have brought this dormant project to life," he said. "It is a wonderful piece of science communication. People around the world have always been fascinated by the immense power of volcanoes."

Modern Engineering Meets 18th-Century Imagination

Master of Mechatronics student Xinyu (Jasmine) Xu and Master of Mechanical Engineering student Yuji (Andy) Zeng spent three months constructing the device in The Creator Space student workshop. Using today's tools -- including laser-cut timber and acrylic, programmable LED lighting, and electronic control systems -- they reinterpreted Hamilton's clockwork concept for a new generation.

"The project offered a wealth of learning opportunities. I've extended many skills, including programming, soldering and physics applications," Ms. Xu said.

Mr. Zeng noted that the process helped him see mechanical design in a new light. "It was a fantastic way to build my hands-on problem-solving skills," he said. "We still faced some of the challenges that Hamilton faced. The light had to be designed and balanced so the mechanisms were hidden from view."

Collaboration and Innovation

Research engineer Mr. Andrew Kogios, who guided the students, praised their dedication and skill.

"From selecting materials and 3D printing, to troubleshooting electronics and satisfying requirements, working collaboratively with Yuji and Xinyu has been extremely rewarding," he said. "Experiences like these, supplementing their university studies, position them well for their future endeavors."

The completed mechanical volcano is now the highlight of The Grand Tour, an exhibition at the University of Melbourne's Baillieu Library that will be on display until June 28, 2026.