Between Theory and Practice: Teodoro Bonati and the Teaching of Hydrostatics at the University of Ferrara

In 1771, the teaching of hydrostatics was included in the curriculum of the “Faculty of Artists” at the University of Ferrara, and Teodoro Bonati (1724–1820) was appointed as teacher. Before becoming a professor, Bonati had worked as hydraulic consultant for the city of Ferrara for more than twenty years, during which he performed many surveys on practical hydraulics on the territory of Ferrara, especially along the course of the river Reno in the Po Plain, in the area between the provinces of Bologna, Ferrara, and Ravenna. Bonati’s fieldwork experience with water regulation was rewarded with an appointment as professor of hydrostatics; he also published several important works on water measurement. A large share of his scientific production remained unpublished (and is still preserved in Ferrara), but is equally important for sketching the biographical and professional life of this mathematician. In focusing especially on this double role of theoretician (professor) and practitioner (technical consultant), I intend to discuss Bonati’s contribution to the science of water measurement and water management.