Curatorial notes
Here is a small book with the title Tangram, date unknown, made by an anonymous author. The Tangram, or "the seven boards of cunning," is an ancient Chinese dissection puzzle consisting of seven flat shapes, called tans, which are put together to form shapes. As a cultural artifact, this book invites us to consider the intersection of mathematics, philosophy, and aesthetics in Chinese culture. The creation and sharing of Tangram puzzles encouraged problem-solving skills as well as creativity. Moreover, the puzzles often depicted figures from daily life, reflecting the values, roles, and social dynamics of the people who engaged with them. The simple act of rearranging shapes can be seen as a metaphor for the endless possibilities of human imagination and ingenuity. In its modest size and unassuming materials, this Tangram book encapsulates a rich history of learning, creativity, and cultural exchange.
