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The Invention of Infinity J. V. Field (Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, University of London)

The Invention of Infinity By J. V. Field (Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, University of London)

Summary

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.

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The Invention of Infinity Summary

The Invention of Infinity: Mathematics and Art in the Renaissance by J. V. Field (Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, University of London)

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 Reviews

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 *

About J. V. Field (Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, University of London)

J. V. Field is a Research Fellow in the Department of History of Art at Birkbeck College, University of London.

Table of Contents

1. Medieval mathematics and optics and the Renaissance style in art ; 2. Building, drawing and 'artificial perspective' ; 3. Through the wall: Masaccio's Trinity fresco ; 4. Piero della Francesca's mathematics ; 5. Piero della Francesca's perspective treatise ; 6. Practitioners and patricians ; 7. The Professionals move in ; 8. Beyond the Ancients ; 9. Fragmented perspective ; Appendix 1 The abacists' favourite scalene triangle: 13, 14, 15 ; Bibliography

Additional information

CIN0198523947VG
9780198523949
0198523947
The Invention of Infinity: Mathematics and Art in the Renaissance by J. V. Field (Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, Research Fellow, Department of History of Art, Birkbeck College, University of London)
Used - Very Good
Hardback
Oxford University Press
19970424
262
N/A
Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
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

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