Were Medieval Islamic Artists Geometry Geniuses?

For centuries art lovers and medievalists, among others, have admired the stunning geometric designs of Islamic architecture. By the 15th century, decorative patterns set in tile had become so complex that some could be considered what modern mathematicians call "quasi-crystalline" designs. This is particularly interesting, because modern western mathematicians did not identify the structure of such designs until the 1970s. Now Peter Lu from Harvard University and Paul Steinhardt from Princeton University have written an article for the journal Science on this intriguing manifestation of mathematic genius in centuries past.

For more, check out the feature by Julie J. Rehmeyer at Science News Online.

Related Resources
• The Alhambra
• Eastern Architecture
• Eastern Medieval Art

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