The Invention of Infinity by J V Field
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.
The Invention of Infinity gives the reader great insight into the practice of mathematics in historyAs 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 *
Compelling book...lavishly illustrated book. Mathematics and arts are clearly equally delightful for Field, and she transmits that enjoyment to the reader, * The Times *
J. V. Field is a Research Fellow in the Department of History of Art at Birkbeck College, University of London.
| SKU | GOR008513292 |
| ISBN 13 | 9780198523949 |
| ISBN 10 | 0198523947 |
| Title | The Invention of Infinity |
| Author | J V Field |
| Condition | Very Good |
| Binding Type | Hardback |
| Publisher | Oxford University Press |
| Year published | 1997-04-24 |
| Number of pages | 264 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | This is a used book - there is no escaping the fact it has been read by someone else and it will show signs of wear and previous use. Overall we expect it to be in very good condition, but if you are not entirely satisfied please get in touch with us |
