Ptolemy`s Geography

Product Description

” Ptolemy`s Geography” is the only book on cartography to have survived from the classical period & one of the most influential scientific works of all time. Written in the second century AD, for more than fifteen centuries, it was the most detailed topography of Europe & Asia available & the best reference on how to gather data & draw maps. Ptolemy championed the use of astronomical observation & applied mathematics in determining geographical locations. But more importantly, he introduced the practice of writing down coordinates of latitude & longitude for every feature drawn on a world map, so that someone else possessing only the text of the ” Geography” could reproduce Ptolemy`s map at any time, in whole or in part, at any scale. Here, Berggren & Jones render an exemplary translation of the ” Geography” & provide a thorough introduction, which treats the historical & technical background of Ptolemy`s work, the contents of the ” Geography”, & the later history of the work. Also included here are unique color reproductions of maps from manuscripts & early printed editions of the text, representative of the beautiful & practical cartographic artistry that flowed from Ptolemy`s work. Historians of science, classicists, & anyone who enjoys beautiful maps or map making will find this work an indispensable addition to their library.