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1 of 253523 objects
The Grounde of Artes 1632
16.5 x 5.5 cm (book measurement (inventory)) | RCIN 1078339
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Robert Recorde was a Welsh mathematician responsible for this manual on arithmetic. First printed in 1543, it provided an introduction to arithmetic in the form of a dialogue. The book was very popular. It was reissued several times before Recorde published a larger second edition, dedicated to Edward VI, in 1552.
Recorde would further refine the work and in 1557, published a companion volume, The Whetstone of Witte (RCIN 1191289). This would look at arithmetic and algebra in greater detail and was responsible for the popularisation of the '+' and '-' signs as well as the introduction of the '=' sign.
The Grounde of Artes would continue to be revised following Recorde's death in 1558. The first posthumous edition was edited by John Dee, Elizabeth I's court astronomer, and the book would go through at least 45 further editions until 1699. The Royal Library's copy is of the 1632 edition. -
Creator(s)
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Measurements
16.5 x 5.5 cm (book measurement (inventory))
18.0 x 6.5 cm (book in slip case)
Alternative title(s)
The ground of arts : teaching the perfect worke and practise of arithmeticke, both in whole numbers and fractions, after a more easie and exact forme then in former time hath beene set forth ... / by Robert Record ... ; enlarged by John Dee [and others]
The ground of arts : teaching the perfect worke and practise of arithmeticke, both in whole numbers and fractions, after a more easie and exact forme then in former time hath beene set forth. made by M. Robert Record D. in Physick. Afterward, augmented by Mr. Iohn Dee. And since enlarged with a third part of rules of practise, abridged into a briefer method than hitherto hath beene published, with diuers necessary rules incident to the trade of merchandise: with tables of the valuation of all coynes, as they are currant at this present time: by Iohm [sic] Mellis. And now diligently perused, corrected, illustrated and enlarged ... with the true value of annuities ... first calculated by R. C. but corrected, and the latter diligently calculated by Robert Hartwell, philomathemat.
Place of Production
London [Greater London]
