Tilings and Patterns (Dover Books on Mathematics)

This inspiring book is geared toward students, professional mathematicians, and readers interested in patterns and shapes ― artists, architects, and crystallographers, among others.

The definitive book on tiling and geometric patterns, this magnificently illustrated volume features 520 figures and more than 100 tables. Accessible to anyone with a grasp of geometry, it offers numerous graphic examples of two-dimensional spaces covered with interlocking figures and related problems and references.
Along with helpful examples from mathematics and geometry, it draws upon models from fields as diverse as crystallography, virology, art, philosophy, and quilting. The self-contained chapters need not be read in sequence, and each concludes with an excellent selection of notes and references. The first seven chapters can be used as a classroom text, and the final five contain fascinating browsing material, including detailed surveys of color patterns, groups of color symmetry, and tilings by polygons. The authors have also added a new Preface and Appendix to this second edition.
 

• Comprehensive Coverage: This second edition features 520 figures and over 100 tables, offering a broad exploration of tiling and geometric patterns.
• User-Friendly Approach: Accessible to anyone with basic geometry knowledge, it includes numerous graphic examples and related problems to simplify complex concepts.
• Versatile Application: Ideal for both classroom use and independent study, catering to students, professional mathematicians, artists, architects, and crystallographers.
• Interdisciplinary References: Incorporates examples and models from diverse fields such as crystallography, virology, art, philosophy, and quilting.
• Flexible Reading: With self-contained chapters that can be read independently and chapters concluding with detailed notes and references, it supports varied learning preferences.
• Enhanced Content: Includes a new Preface and Appendix, making this edition not just a textbook but a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in patterns and shapes.

Every known human society has used tilings and patterns in some form or another. Tilings and Patterns is accessible to anyone with a grasp of geometry; its illustrated examples feature related problems and references—1987 edition.
 

Branko Grünbaum is Professor Emeritus at the University of Washington. G. C. Shephard is affiliated with the University of East Anglia, England.