Watt's First Experiment, Marcus Stone, Circa 1868

This imaginative portrayal of james watt (1736-1819) was engraved by herbert bourne after a painting by marcus stone, which was in the collection of george virtue, esq. Of oatlands park at the time that the print was created. Watt was a scottish engineer and chemist who was known for his vast improvements to the early steam engine. The picture depicts him as a young boy, already fascinated by the steam power of a kettle. Although watt in fact probably became interested in steam energy as a young adult, this myth of his "first experiment" continues in popularity today. Date: Circa 1868. Collection: Science History Institute. Watt's First Experiment - DPLA - e14f3e4c5ba5c6d7abc08e5553ab42b0