The Geometry of Art and Life

Book Details

• Author: Matila Ghyka

• Publisher: Dover

• Language: English

• Edition: Revised Edition

• ISBN: 9780486235424

• Pages: 208

• Cover: Paperback

• Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.2 inches

About the Book

The Geometry of Art and Life is a classic and fascinating exploration of the intricate relationships between geometry, art, and nature. In this revised edition, Matila Ghyka delves into how ancient thinkers such as Plato, Pythagoras, and Archimedes have shaped our understanding of the geometric patterns that govern our world. From these philosophical foundations, the book moves into the application of geometry in various aspects of life, art, and nature, including architecture, marine life, and the structure of flowers and shells.

One of the key discussions in the book focuses on the Golden Section, a ratio that has been revered for its aesthetic appeal and its omnipresence in natural and human-made creations. Ghyka also explores a wide range of geometrical shapes, both in two and three dimensions, along with the fascinating study of crystal lattices and other complex patterns found in the natural world.

This work is not only a study of geometry but also an examination of how mathematical principles intertwine with artistic expression, offering readers an enriching understanding of the symmetry and beauty that exists within nature and human culture. The book is illustrated with diagrams that bring these concepts to life, making it a valuable resource for students of both art and mathematics, as well as anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of beauty.