The even-order symmetrical magic square in the upper right corner of Durer's famous Melancholia engraving fascinates me.
It's relatively easy to construct odd-order magic squares by following simple formulas, but the even-order, numerical pun, and symmetry of Durer's is a thing of beauty.
And of course the engraving itself is absolutely stunning. I saw a print of it once at the Clark in the beautiful Berkshires, where I sometimes would drag anyone who'd go along to see the great Impressionist collection there.
I ran into the Durer by accident. That's the best way, I suppose.
Lucky for me I've had a few days away from hospital nursing in which I could think about such things. Sometimes when we work, the vast beauty of our world is not what we first consider. Too busy.
