medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
Dear medieval-religion colleagues,
Although I am incredibly challenged with regard to mathematics, I
like pretty design when I see it, so I was drawn to look at an
illustrated article in today's New York Times:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/27/science/27math.html
This begins:
'In the beauty and geometric complexity of tile mosaics on walls of
medieval Islamic buildings, scientists have recognized patterns
suggesting that the designers had made a conceptual breakthrough in
mathematics beginning as early as the 13th century. A new study shows
that the Islamic pattern-making process, far more intricate than the
laying of one’s bathroom floor, appears to have involved an advanced
math of quasi crystals, which was not understood by modern scientists
until three decades ago.'
I'm not asking anyone to explain the concept of quasi crystals, but I
would like to know of an article or book that ***simply*** explains
the obvious fascination for geometric patterns visible in medieval
Islamic art and architecture: any suggestions?
Thanks, George
--
George FERZOCO
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