Polyhedron Models (Paperback)

by Magnus J. Wenninger (Author) "If you are being introduced to this topic for the first time, your first question might well be 'What is a polyhedron?'..." (more)
Key Phrases: trihedral dimples, final stellation, enantiomorphous arrangement, Euclid's Elements (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
'The general effect of this book is to create a desire in the reader to become involved with these gracefully symmetrical figures; it is very pleasant reading indeed.' Science

'The photographs and descriptions, together with a foreword by H. S. M. Coxeter, a bibliography, and a list of the models, have been fashioned into a beautiful book.' Choice

'This book should provide hours of enjoyment to all those who appreciate the regular, uniform and stellated polyhedra.' Institute of Physics

' ... a splendid sequel to Cundy and Rollett's Mathematical models: more lavishly produced, with a photograph of each of the 119 models described ...' Mathematical Gazette

Product Description
Models of the regular and semiregular polyhedral solids have fascinated people for centuries. The Greeks knew the simplest of them. Since then the range of figures has grown; 75 are known today and are called, more generally, 'uniform' polyhedra. The author describes simply and carefully how to make models of all the known uniform polyhedra and some of the stellated forms. Fully illustrated with drawings and photographs, this is the first practical guide to making these intricate and beautiful solids.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 228 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (April 26, 1974)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521098599
• ISBN-13: 978-0521098595
• Product Dimensions: 10 x 7.3 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #337,010 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars The definitive guide to uniform polyhedra, June 12, 2000

By A Customer

This book contains a detailed description of how to make (paper) models of each of the 75 uniform polyhedra, as well as some stellated polyhedra. Wenninger's descriptive and precise writing style is invaluable--his advice on construction methods and techniques are right on the mark. In nearly all cases, he provides sufficient data to allow the reader to draw his/her own templates, but especially in the most complex polyhedra the facial plane data is lacking, most likely because it is too lengthy to include. I would like to have seen more math in this text, and larger photographs. Otherwise, this is a must-have book for anyone interested in polyhedra.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The most definitive modern work of polyhedra I've seen, July 2, 1998

By A Customer

I have been fascinated with these structures since my disciovery of this book in 1980. Magnus is a fine builder of models and a competent teacher. The explanations for building each model are concise. I also compliment the photographer. As one begins to understand the underlying principles of these solids, a vast array of options present themselves as topics of further study.

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Let patience (and beautiful models) be your reward-, December 18, 1996

By A Customer

Since I discovered this book, I've easily spent hundreds of hours building these wonderful polyhedra. With a good general guide to model building and clear instructions, patterns and pictures of the completed model -- the book provides the raw material for a great hobby. The completed models are a continuing fascination, the relations between polyhedra and their symmetry can really only be appreciated when you have the models in your hands. While I loved building some of the over 120 models, it requires patience, a steady hand and practice.