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The Invention of Infinity: Mathematics and Art in the Renaissance
J. V. Field
€ 15.00
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Description for The Invention of Infinity: Mathematics and Art in the Renaissance
hardcover. This book tells (for the first time) the story of how the 'practical' mathematics of Renaissance artists influenced the development of 'proper' mathematics. The text is clear, lively, and scholarly, and is accompanied by beautiful colour and black and white illustrations. It will appeal to anyone with an interest in science or art. Num Pages: 262 pages, numerous halftones and line figures. BIC Classification: PBX; PDX; PDZ; TBX. Category: (P) Professional & Vocational. Dimension: 253 x 197 x 23. Weight in Grams: 702. Good clean copy with minor shelfwear. DJ has some nicks and tears, remains very good
Renaissance craftsmen, such as painters, were educated in `practical mathematics'. This book tells us the fascintating story of how the artisan tradition made important contributions not only to art but also to `proper' mathematics. Beautiful works of art and famous theorems are linked together in a way that leads to a clearer understanding and greater enjoyment of both. Covering roughly the period from 1300 to 1650, the author shows how, during this time, a new form of geometry - projective geometry - emerged in the context of the artists' mathematics of perspective. Stories of taking measurements while balanced on scaffolding are interspersed with delightful scholarly analyses of the mathematics of great works of art. The text is beautifully illustrated throughout with both photographs and drawings.
Product Details
Format
Hardback
Publication date
1997
Publisher
OUP Oxford
Condition
Used, Very Good
Number of Pages
262
Place of Publication
Oxford, United Kingdom
ISBN
9780198523949
SKU
KTS0038341
Shipping Time
Usually ships in 2 to 4 working days
Ref
99-1
About J. V. Field
J. V. Field is a Research Fellow in the Department of History of Art at Birkbeck College, University of London.
Reviews for The Invention of Infinity: Mathematics and Art in the Renaissance
The Invention of Infinity gives the reader great insight into the practice of mathematics in history. As such it is instructive to anyone attempting to understand old texts. As an example of interdisciplinary work, this book is excellent. Fields study is particularly helpful in that it demonstrates the possibility of sympathetically approaching what are traditionally rather different disciplines.
Peter K. Benbow, MAA Reviews
Compelling book...lavishly illustrated book. Mathematics and arts are clearly equally delightful for Field, and she transmits that enjoyment to the reader,
The Times
Peter K. Benbow, MAA Reviews
Compelling book...lavishly illustrated book. Mathematics and arts are clearly equally delightful for Field, and she transmits that enjoyment to the reader,
The Times