The device comprises an articulated lever arrangement with the inner joints (116) of the first and second levers (114A,114B) locked by at least one locking component (120) in the extended position in the form of an immovable triangle. The levers are located along one axis (112) which runs in the direction of the force path of the press. The outer joints (118) each have a common pivot axis. A damping device, consisting of a piston and cylinder, is located between the inner joints and acts in the direction of the force path. ADVANTAGE - Safe transmission of the press is made possible.