wooden mathematical model ?
Date: 1910-1960
Inventory Number: 1998-1-1470
Classification: Mathematical Model
Subject:
Maker: American ?
Cultural Region:
Dimensions:
3 × 25.5 × 22.3 cm (1 3/16 × 10 1/16 × 8 3/4 in.)
Description:
Object consists of three pieces. The main piece is an elliptical wooden disc. A circle in inscribed inside it with an engraved line. The ellipse extends beyond the inscribed circles on two sides. There are also three straight engraved lines that divide the ellipse into six wedges. At the center of the ellipse is a two-piece rectangular holder. An unfinished, cylindrical wooden pole is slid inside it. The pole is parallel to one of the engraved straight lines. Each end of the pole points to one of the sides at which the ellipse extends beyond the circle.
The main disc is accompanied by two semi-circular wooden discs. One is longer and thinner than the other and painted matte black. The paint is fading around the edges. The other is wider and shorter, and varnished (not original).
The main disc is accompanied by two semi-circular wooden discs. One is longer and thinner than the other and painted matte black. The paint is fading around the edges. The other is wider and shorter, and varnished (not original).
Signedunsigned
Inscribedstamped in black letters on back of model: 10 88
FunctionPurpose of the discs is unknown. Object might be a mathematical demonstration model for comparing and studying the mathematical relations of various circles and ellipses.
Curatorial RemarksOne of the wooden semi-circular pieces is seemingly not original.