John Napier of Merchiston

Scottish

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

1616

John Napier of Merchiston (1550-1617) was an inventor and mathematician. His most important contribution was in the field of mathematics. Napier produced the present notation of decimal fractions and explained the construction of logarithms and their use. He also invented 'Napier's Bones', a very simple form of calculating machine which could carry out multiplication and division.

• Medium: oil on canvas
• Dimensions: 110 x 100 cm
• Art Fund Grant: £1500 ( Total: £28,050; Tax Remission)
• ArtFunded in: 1974
• Vendor: Mr Morris

Provenance

By descent in the Tweeddale family; Peter Morris.

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