George Vasmer Leverett Professor of Mathematics

Euclid. Elements
Venice: Erhardus Ratdolt, 1482

Euclid’s Elements are probably the second most important book in history (after the Bible) but it took some time after Gutenberg to print them, as people had to figure out how to set the geometric figures. I frequently bring my math classes in to see the edition (also the first printed edition in English, which Houghton also possesses). It’s a great piece of mathematical history, and the ability to print the triangles represents a real advance in technology.

11.75 L x 8.5 W x 1.25 Th (in)
WKR 1.2.4, Gift of William King Richardson, 1951