Abstract: An apparatus for lifting and shifting the upper sweep (6) in relation to the lower sweep (2) in the construction of a large cylindrical cistern, comprising a support member (1) hung on the upper edge (3) of the lower sweep (2) and provided with an upstanding carrier body (16). The upper edge of the latter extends parallel to the upper edge (3) of the lower sweep (2) to form a track (19). The carrier body (16) carries a lift member (32) which in turn carries the upper sweep (6). The lift member (32) is formed as a yoke, the cross portion of which rests on a wedge-shaped shifting member (24) in turn resting on the carrier body (16). The wedge (24) is reciprocably displaceable parallel to the lower sweep edge (2) with the aid of a hydraulic cylinder (22). During a first phase of the forward travel, the lift member (32) and the upper sweep (6) are solely given a lifting movement, and during a subsequent forward movement the lift member and the upper sweep are also given a shifting movement.