Architecture and Mathematics in Ancient Egypt

A fascinating analysis of the relationship between mathematics and architecture in ancient Egypt.

Corinna Rossi (Author)

9780521829540, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 15 April 2004

304 pages, 102 b/w illus. 9 tables
25.3 x 17.6 x 2.4 cm, 0.75 kg

'… the book is beautifully written, thoughtful, and extremely reader-friendly in its organisation. Its mathematical content is nothing to be afraid of either, as it is reasonably accessible … with many helpful drawings, diagrams and charts. … the book is certainly a valuable contribution to the study of Egyptian architecture, as well as a product of much serious thought and careful documentation.' Bryn Mawr Classical Review

In this fascinating study, architect and Egyptologist Corinna Rossi analyses the relationship between mathematics and architecture in ancient Egypt by exploring the use of numbers and geometrical figures in ancient architectural projects and buildings. While previous architectural studies have searched for abstract 'universal rules' to explain the history of Egyptian architecture, Rossi attempts to reconcile the different approaches of archaeologists, architects and historians of mathematics into a single coherent picture. Using a study of a specific group of monuments, the pyramids, and placing them in the context of their cultural and historical background, Rossi argues that theory and practice of construction must be considered as a continuum, not as two separated fields, in order to allow the original planning process of a building to re-emerge. Highly illustrated with plans, diagrams and figures, this book is essential reading for all scholars of Ancient Egypt and the architecture of ancient cultures.

Part I. Proportions in Ancient Egyptian Architecture: 1. In search of 'the rule' for Ancient Egyptian Architecture
2. Mathematics and architecture in Ancient Egypt
Part II. Ancient Egyptian Sources: Construction and Representation of Space: 3. Documents on the planning and building process
4. Foundation rituals
Part III. The Geometry of Pyramids: 5. Symbolic shape and constructional problems
6. The proportions of pyramids
7. Pyramids and triangles
Overview.

Subject Areas: History of science [PDX], History of mathematics [PBX], Egyptian archaeology / Egyptology [HDDG], Archaeology [HD], Architecture [AM]