The Splendor of Iridescence : Structural Colors in the Animal World

by Hilda Simon

268 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1971

Reviews

[L Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very nice (fairly short, straightforward) description of light and the coloration—by pigmentation vs interference effects—of animals, birds, and insects, along with illustrations of these.

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This simple, exceptional book engenders curiosity. While reading it, science seems an immanent part of the world, rather than merely its description. The Splendor of Iridescence juxtaposes the beauty of nature with delicate drawings that look original--as if the artist penciled in each color in each copy. It emphasizes the technological elements of nature and the organic aspects of human creation, blurring the distinction between the two.

Not a textbook, this iridescent book rests best on a coffee table; it should be read and returned to.

[Liliana D'Alba · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some of the concepts and science (particularly on the optics and mechanisms of color production) are a little outdated but the illustrations are very detailed, accurate and artistic at the same time.

[Devon · Rating 4 out of 5]

cool