The text discusses a drawing tool used for copying and enlarging drawings, known as the Pantograph or Monkey. Despite its flaws, changes have been made to simplify it and improve accuracy, validated by the Academy of Sciences. The tool, described in a separate booklet, is successful among artists.
THE DRAWING
The original towards the first foot, and the paper for the copy on the side of the last foot, moving the paper closer or further according to whether a larger or smaller copy is desired. To copy from small to large, one simply needs to move the position of the original and the copy. In any method used, it’s essential to place a pencil in the foot under the paper and a slightly dulled silver needle in the original, using it to follow all the lines, guiding it with one hand while gently pressing on the pencil to trace the copy; and even if it presses enough on the paper, there's no need to put the hand.
Since this instrument has several drawbacks and it is difficult to produce accurate copies, efforts have been made to make it simpler and less complex. Mr. Langlois, Engineer for the King and the Royal Academy of Sciences for Mathematical Instruments, has made changes and corrections to make it as convenient as possible for copying and reducing large or small all kinds of figures, plans, maps, ornaments, etc., with great precision and very promptly. This is the judgment by the members of the Academy of Sciences. Mr. Langlois calls this instrument the Pantograph, or the Monkey, because of its ability to imitate all sorts of drawings and paintings. We will not provide the figure or description here, as the author has done so in a small booklet distributed with the instrument: we will add that this instrument is in the hands of many artists who have used it successfully.
Translation Notes
The term "Pantograph" refers to a drawing instrument that enlarges or reduces drawings. The alternative name "Monkey" likely refers to its mimicking ability.