Biringuccio, Vannoccio

Biringuccio, Vannoccio

(born Oct. 20, 1480, Siena—died August 1537, Rome) Italian metallurgist and armaments maker. He is chiefly known for the first clear, comprehensive work on metallurgy, De la pirotechnia (published posthumously in 1540). His book, which contrasts strikingly with the obscure alchemical writings of the time, is replete with lavish woodcuts illustrating equipment and processes and includes clear, practical instructions for mining, smelting, and metalworking. It became a standard reference and remains a valuable resource on 15th- and 16th-century technology.