ZIPSER, Matej
* around 1710, Štiavnické bane, Slovakia
† 11. 2. 1768, Štiavnické bane, Slovakia
Mountain scientist
Z.'s birth date is unknown. After primary school he attended Mining school in Banská Štiavnica, where he was taught by Samuel → Mikovíni. During his studies he helped → Mikovíni with land surveying and eventually became his most important student and collaborator. From 1734 onwards he held the position of "adjunkt-inspector" of the mine in Banská Štiavnica. After his father's death in 1748, he followed his footsteps and became an inspector. He was promoted to manager of the main mine in Banská Štiavnica, established in Štiavnické bane in 1749. Study travels led Z. to Zellerdorf, Hannover and Annaberg. Z. left a legacy of 18 major mining maps, inter alia, a transparent mineral map of Banská Štiavnica district, outlined in 1747 and showing the ore veins. His most important work is the introduction of cross-ceiling excavating with a thickness of six meters. The new method of excavating led to greater yields and less waste heaps. One of his tasks was also to supervise the installation of water mains for the Emperor Franc in Horduša. He has also participated in various projects to supply water to the pumps and handling equipment.
