An engraving depicting a hand-powered hydraulic press: material to be compressed is placed on a plate which is raised and lowered by piston, c, which descends into a tank of water. The tank is connected to the force pump (left) using a leaden tube. When the pump handle is operated, water in the tank beneath C rises, so lifting the piston and compressing the bales. Joseph Bramah (1748-1814) an English inventor and locksmith who is best known for inventing the hydraulic press. Dated 19th century.