The evolution of transformation media in spherical trigonometry in 17th- and 18th-century China, and its relation to ``Western learning'' (Q2654170)

The present article is the first of its kind to offer an extensive presentation of the development of trigonometry in 17th and 18th centuries China. After having analysed Chinese conceptions relating to this special branch of mathematics prior to the 17-th century, the author explain that \textit{A. Magini} (1555--1617) 's Trigonometriae Sphaericorum was adapted into Chinese by the Italian Jesuit \textit{Giacomo Rho} (1592--1638). Then he explains precisely that \textit{Mei Wending} (1633--1721) and Dai Zhen's trigonometrical techniques were based on the construction of solids, plane projections, proportionality and the properties of rectangular triangles. While doing this, he gives numerous reproduction of Chinese original figures together with simplified reproductions easily legible by all readers; he also make clear that Dai Zhen was influenced by Mei Wending without never acknowledging his debt towards his predecessor. Chinese ideas about the identity of Western and Chinese methods are also analysed as well as 19th centuries opinions of Chinese mathematicians concerning these two mathematicians. Last but not least a very good bibliography (original works and modern studies (60 items) closes this valuable article.