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Ancient altars, characters, and John Napiers bones
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Ancient altars, characters, and John Napiers bones
Ancient altars, ark of the covenant, Chinese musical instrument Ching and King, John Napiers calculating bones, and ancient arithmetical characters. Copperplate engraving by Wilson Lowry from Abraham Rees Cyclopedia or Universal Dictionary of Arts, Sciences and Literature, Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme and Brown, London, 1820
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Media ID 23164544
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Abraham Altar Arts Bones Calculator Characters Ching Covenant Cyclopedia Dictionary Instrument Napier Rees Sciences Universal Arithmetical Musical
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EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "Ancient Altar, Ark of the Covenant, Chinese Musical Instruments, and John Napier's Bones: A Fusion of Cultures and Mathematical Innovations" This copperplate engraving, created by Wilson Lowry for Abraham Rees' Cyclopedia or Universal Dictionary of Arts, Sciences and Literature, published in London in 1820, offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of ancient religious practices, Chinese culture, and the groundbreaking mathematical innovations of John Napier. At the center of the image, an ancient altar adorned with intricate carvings and symbols stands proudly, evoking the mystique of long-lost civilizations. Above it, the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest believed to have housed the Ten Commandments, is depicted with its iconic golden mercy seat and cherubim. To the right, two Chinese musical instruments, the Ching and King, are shown. The Ching, a type of zither, and the King, a large drum, symbolize the rich musical traditions of the Far East. Their inclusion in this scene highlights the global interconnectedness of various cultures during the 18th and 19th centuries. In the foreground, John Napier, a Scottish mathematician, is depicted using his famous "Bones of Napier," also known as Rabdology, for calculating complex arithmetic problems. The bones, consisting of small rods marked with numerical values, were a precursor to the abacus and calculator. Napier's innovative approach to mathematics revolutionized the field and paved the way for future advancements. Surrounding Napier are ancient arithmetical characters, further emphasizing the connection between the past and the present. This intriguing illustration not only showcases the beauty and diversity of various cultures but also highlights the importance of mathematical innovation throughout history.
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