Epact: Scientific Instruments of Medieval and Renaissance Europe

Philippe Danfrie

Philippe Danfrie was born in Cornouaille in Brittany in about 1532, and was settled in Paris by 1556. He was a designer and maker of mathematical instruments in metal and paper, as well as a type-cutter, engraver, minter of coins and medals, publisher and author. Much is known about Danfrie's life and activities. He is probably best known as designer of the surveying instrument known as the graphometer. He died in 1606.

For instruments by Philippe Danfrie, see:

Armillary Sphere, Signed by Philippe Danfrie, French, circa 1570 (Oxford, MHS)

Astrolabe, Attributed to Philippe Danfrie, Paris, circa 1600 (Oxford, MHS)

Astrolabe, Signed by Philippe Danfrie, Paris, Dated 1584 (Oxford, MHS)

Astrolabe, Signed by Philippe Danfrie, French, circa 1600 (London, BM)

Astronomical Compendium, Signed by Philippe Danfrie, French, circa 1590 (Oxford, MHS)

References:

A. J. Turner, "Paper, Print, and Mathematics: Philippe Danfrie and the Making of Mathematical Instruments in late 16th century Paris", in C. Blondel, et al. (eds.), Studies in the History of Scientific Instruments (London and Paris, 1989), pp. 22-42.

Epact Scientific Instruments of Medieval and Renaissance Europe