Symmetry. Through the eyes of old masters (Q5891000)

The author, emeritus professor of mineralogy, calls the subject of this book the crystallography of culture. It offers, on the one hand, many beautiful examples of art exhibiting some form of symmetry. On the other hand, without losing himself in complicated technical considerations, the author uses the crystallographic theory of symmetry groups to create order in a multitude of ornaments, floor mosaics, textiles, ceilings and other works of art showing symmetry. From art representing one of the plane groups of symmetry he proceeds to intertwined patterns that also possess symmetry between front and back. Then he deals with examples of coloured symmetry. He continues with art that is still two-dimensional but understanding the repetition in the pattern requires that the criterion of congruence is relaxed. Two chapters are devoted to quasiperiodic patters and fractal art. In the last chapter the author briefly addresses the relation between style and symmetry. It is a lovely book.