 The Olivier models, invented in the mid-19th century by Theodore Olivier of the Conservatoire des Arts et Metiers in Paris, were designed to illustrate the intersection of various shapes and surfaces. Union Professor William Gillespie, who knew Olivier personally, purchased the models, which were acquired by the College after Gillespie's death in 1868. The College's collection of more than 50 models is believed to the largest of its kind in the world. The models, highly regarded as both works of science and works of art, have been featured in articles in both the scientific and mainstream press. A curator from the Smithsonian recently visited to inspect the models. Most of them were restored and cataloged in recent years by the late Prof. William Stone of mathematics, an effective advocate for publicizing the treasures.
The models are being temporarily housed at Special Collections. They will return to the Math building when the building renovations are complete. |
