This is the working flame gulper engine that uses the same thermodynamic principles as the original engine invented by Henry Wood in 1758. Powered by the expansion and compression of air, the engine intakes the flame from the included alcohol burner, drawing it into the engine cylinder through a valve that opens and closes. When the flame is drawn into the engine it heats the air and causes it to expand, pushing the piston backward. As the piston moves backward it closes the valve, causing the air inside to cool and compress and forcing the piston forward. The piston is connected to a flywheel with a system of levers and pulleys, causing the flywheel to spin and enabling the piston movement to repeat until the flame is put out. Made in Germany, the engine's parts are made from machine tooled solid brass, stainless steel, and aluminum components that provide elegant, powerful movement. With a walnut-stained wood base. 8"W x 5" D x 6 1/2" H. (6 lbs.)