This second volume by Silvio Bedini pursues themes set out in his previous collection; the main focus is, again, on Italy, but the scope is broadened to include other parts of Europe. Three elements combined in the evolution and production of scientific instruments: purpose or function, the patron, and the artisans. The first studies here look at the patrons of science, the collections they established and their evolution into museums, and then at some of the artisans who made fine instruments. The second section deals with techniques and instruments. With the adoption of mathematical techniques for measurement - of time, in navigation and surveying and weighing - came the development of tools which grew in precision to the degree that they became part of science. From the toys and curiosities of princes and wealthy prelates, instruments became more functional in response to the new requirements resulting from each new discovery.
- ISBN10 0860787818
- ISBN13 9780860787815
- Publish Date 28 April 1999
- Publish Status Active
- Out of Print 7 July 2021
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
- Imprint Variorum
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 352
- Language English