Perspective Research Centre
PERSPECTIVE RESEARCH CENTRE
Exploring the visual dimensions of art, science and technology.
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Compass (reduction)

The reduction compass or proportional dividers is a geometry tool with asymmetric-length branches to allow performing homothetic transformations, reproducing a pattern while enlarging or reducing its size and conserving angles. It was invented by Fabrizio Mordente before 1567.


Figure 1: Late 19th-century reduction compass.