Al-Jazari: The Inventor with a Twist!

Al-Jazari was a prolific inventor, tinkerer and overall millennial weirdo that lived between 1115 and 1206. He is widely regarded as a pioneer of the field of engineering, and his works have been the inspiration of many modern-day devices, including the cuckoo clock, the flushing toilet, and the catapult.

That’s right! If you enjoy taking a number two in peace, flinging projectiles over castle walls, or hearing a tiny bird-based brain-teaser every hour, you owe Al-Jazari a big thank you!

But Al-Jazari wasn’t just a serious inventor. He had a wicked sense of humor too! He was famous for his love of practical jokes, and would often incorporate them into his inventions.

For example, his “Elephant Clock” was a famous clock that featured a water-carrying elephant. The elephant would throw water from its trunk onto a waterwheel, which would drive the machinery of the clock. But here’s where the joke lies: the elephant would also squirt water at unsuspecting guests!

Can you imagine inviting people over for dinner only for them to be sprayed with water by an elephant clock? Classic Jazari!

But perhaps his most notorious invention was the “Peacock Fountain” - a small automaton fountain that depicted a peacock spreading its tail feathers. But here’s the twist: hidden behind the peacock were tubes that would squirt water onto unsuspecting guests, catching them by surprise!

Jazari was also the original “Think Different” guy. He approached problems in a unique way, often inventing entirely new machines for each task he faced. A true non-confirmist if you ask me!

And to top off his eccentric personality, Al-Jazari refused to patent any of his inventions or write down any detailed plans. Instead, he would share the instructions orally or demonstrate them to those who asked.

For all these reasons, Al-Jazari continues to be a beloved figure in the world of engineering, known for his inventive mind and mischievous shenanigans. Keep your eyes open for the next prankster inventor the world produces!