29 products were found matching your search for Console Samuel Tachyon Universe in 3 shops:

The NX4 is a comprehensive feature packed control surface. With a well-arranged combination of motorized and manual faders as well as an array of playback button the NX4 offers 44 total playbacks in a compact yet extremely powerful package. As a member of the innovative ONYX platform from Obsidian Control Systems the NX4 is feature rich and never restricted in its capabilities. NX4 includes a high-brightness full HD multi-touch screen; 8 assignable parameter encoders; dedicated Intensity encoder; an assistive mini touch-screen; full keypad and command section and a dedicated grand master.Two independent playback sections offer instant access. The main playback with 10 motorized faders plus 10 play-pairs allows for quick page changes while the sub playback with 12 faders and 12 button playbacks allows important cues to always be at the user's fingertips.Utilizing the latest in industrial components the NX4 contains a powerful new Intel Hexa-Core processor, high speed NVMe SSD drive and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. Fast boot times, instant operation and the ability to process 64 Universes right inside the console without the need for costly external processing networks result in unprecedented power in this form factor. The NX4 is ergonomic with its motorized playback faders, short depth, easy screen access, full ONYX command and keypad section and bright adjustable HD touch screen. It is always ready to run the largest shows and events at a moment's notice.With four DMX ports, Timecode, Midi and dual Gigabit ports for up to 64 Universes of Art-Net, sACN plus the ONYX X-Net protocol the NX4 has all the connectivity and power the ever-increasing sizes of shows demand. Two additional 4K touch monitors are supported for even more direct access at any time.For powerful visualization of lighting and scenery every NX4 console includes a free CAPTURE Duet Edition license.

The NX2 is the ultimate compact yet powerful fully integrated lighting controller. As a member of the innovative ONYX platform from Obsidian Control Systems the NX2 is feature rich and never restricted in its capabilities. NX2 includes a high-brightness full HD multi-touch screen; 8 assignable parameter encoders; an assistive mini touch-screen; full keypad and command section; a dedicated grandmaster and 10 full playbacks with four freely assignable buttons.Utilizing the latest in industrial components the NX2 contains a powerful new Intel Hexa-Core processor, high speed NVMe SSD drive and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. Fast boot times, instant operation and the ability to process 64 Universes right inside the console without the need for costly external processing networks result in unprecedented power in this form factor.The NX2 is ergonomic with its compact footprint, full ONYX command and keypad section and the bright adjustable HD touch screen. It is always ready to run the largest shows and events at a moments notice.With four DMX ports, Timecode, Midi and dual Gigabit ports for up to 64 Universes of Art-Net, sACN plus the ONYX X-Net protocol the NX 2 has all the connectivity and power the ever-increasing sizes of shows demand. Two additional 4K touch monitors are supported for even more direct access at anytime.For powerful visualization of lighting and scenery every NX2 console includes a free CAPTURE Solo Edition license.

NX Wing is the complementary USB control surface to Obsidian Control Systems ONYX platform. Based on the NX 2 console the NX Wing utilizes the same rugged design and components with an identical footprint and layout. Through its USB connection the NX Wing provides a responsive, professional hardware surface to operate ONYX on any PC system without compromises. Any user of ONYX will feel instantly familiar with the NX Wing and no setup or additional installation is required. Simply plug it into a user-provided PC with ONYX and get started instantly.NX Wing provides extensive connectivity with 4 DMX Ports, MIDI and Timecode ports while unlocking 64 Universes of control when connected to ONYX on a PC.

QuickQ 10 is part of ChamSys QuickQ range of user friendly and affordable lighting control consoles. The QuickQ 10 is the perfect choice console for control of dimmer and LED color mixing fixtures. The console features a large 9.7 inch touch screen utilising a smart phone like interface for setup, programming and playback of your show.The console can automatically detect and patch RDM compliant fixtures and features in-built WIFI enabling remote connection to the free QuickQ app available on iOS, Andoid and Windows tablets and phones. Easily connect the app by simply scanning the QR code on the console display.The console has easy-to-understand buttons and faders, simple color selection and intensity control tools, a large touch screen with zooming and scrolling at your fingertips, as well as a simple cue/chase system for playback. Specifically aimed at the novice user, the QuickQ interface easily leads you through setup, programming and operation of the console.The console has a free to download offline programming software available for Mac and Windows. You can program your show on your computer, save it onto a flash drive and load it onto the QuickQ console.QuickQ uses ChamSys extensive and continuously updated personality library with over 30,000 personalities.QuickQ shows are compatible can be loaded onto any MagicQ system allowing future progression onto ChamSys more advanced MagicQ range of consoles.Overview• Modelled on smartphone icon interfaces for ease of use• Intuitive interface allowing simple control of all fixture attributes• The interface supports gestures such pinch zoom and scrolling• Easily connect to the remote app on iOS & Android devices via inbuilt Wi-FiPlayback Faders• 20 multi-function fixture faders with 3 different modes - Fixture, Group and Cue• 3 multi-cue Playback faders: two Chase controllers and one Cue Stack, which are legended on screen• The console features a dedicated Grand Master fader for overall level controlColor Control• A dedicated "color control area" with Hue and Saturation encoders• Select from inbuilt palettes and gel libraries using the touch screen• Built in color picker for use with LED fixturesNetworking• QuickQ supports output of DMX over network via ArtNet/sACN/PathportSoftware• Offline editor available for both Windows and Mac• Regular software updates• Easy Upgrades• Automated Patching• HSV Color Mixing• Color Picker• Built-in FX• Chase Support• Master Cue Stack• Execute Window• Audio Triggering • Tap to Time

When it comes to compact yet powerful lighting control, the MagicQ MQ80 Compact DMX Lighting Control Console stands out with its sleek and sophisticated design. This high-tech console supports up to 48 universes directly from the console itself, making it an ideal choice for managing intricate lighting effects for stage performances or events. Despite its compact size, the MagicQ MQ80 doesn't compromise on functionality. It features four DMX ports supporting RDM, all fitting within checked luggage restrictions, making it a convenient choice for on-the-go lighting professionals. The console's large 12" high-resolution display provides intuitive access to all MagicQ features, including the Plot window for graphical selection and focusing of fixtures.The MagicQ MQ80 is equipped with the same software found on all MagicQ consoles, ensuring seamless compatibility between all MagicQ products. This console can be network-connected to a PC or Mac running the free ChamSys MagicVis lighting visualization software or MagicHD media player software, allowing for output of up to eight layers of HD media at no additional cost.Constructed with high-reliability components, the MagicQ MQ80 features durable metal Neutrik locking connectors for added security. The inbuilt 4-port Ethernet switch is UPS-protected, ensuring continued operation of both the console and the network switch even during a power loss. For added security, the console also features a Kensington security slot.The MagicQ software offers powerful lighting control with an array of features that lighting designers rely on. These include full lighting visualization, pixel mapping, and HD media playback on up to eight different layers, all integrated smoothly to streamline workflows, save time, and shorten the learning curve. Please note that the original 24 universes have been increased to 48 from software version 1.8.4.5, further enhancing the versatility of this compact DMX lighting control console.

What sets the MagicQ MQ70 Compact DMX Lighting Control Console apart is its compact size and powerful capabilities, making it a standout in the realm of lightweight, portable lighting consoles. Designed to meet the hand luggage carry-on restrictions of major budget airlines like Southwest, Easyjet, and Ryanair, the MagicQ MQ70 is the perfect companion for on-the-go lighting professionals.This console boasts a 10.1" multi-touch display, complete with illuminated encoder and fader tracks, providing a user-friendly interface that's easy to navigate. With support for 24 universes, expandable to 48, the MagicQ MQ70 offers a wide range of control options to suit any lighting setup.The MagicQ MQ70 is equipped with three network ports, enabling direct ArtNet and sACN from the console. It also features four assignable physical DMX ports with RDM support, providing versatile connectivity options. With built-in WiFi, this console allows for quick and easy connection to the ChamSys MagicQ Remote focus application, eliminating the need for external networking hardware.One of the standout features of the MagicQ MQ70 is its inbuilt UPS, which protects both the console and the Ethernet switch in case of power failure. Its low power consumption and fanless design ensure silent operation, making it an ideal choice for touring shows, broadcast, theatrical, and corporate shows.The MagicQ MQ70 also offers built-in MIDI input and output, LTC, and audio input for synchronization, providing numerous options for integration with show control and audio systems. It runs the same MagicQ software as other MagicQ consoles, ensuring compatibility and seamless operation across different consoles within the universe limits.MagicQ software delivers powerful lighting control, full lighting visualization, pixel mapping, and HD media playback. It's the trusted tool that lighting designers depend on for everything from simple setups to the most complex shows. Experience the convenience and power of the MagicQ MQ70 Compact DMX Lighting Control Console.

Enhance your lighting control capabilities with the MagicQ MQ250M Stadium DMX Lighting Control Console with Flight Case, a 64-Universe powerhouse that combines high-capacity show control with the convenience of portability. This compact, all-in-one lighting control solution is designed to handle up to 128 universes without the need for additional processing equipment, making it an exceptional value for professionals in the lighting industry.The MQ250M comes equipped with the familiar, user-friendly MagicQ software, offering seamless operation and control. The console features 10 backlit, motorized faders and 10 backlit playback encoders with executors, providing ample programming space within its compact design.This console offers direct access to all universes of DMX through the network ports on the rear of the console, supporting industry-standard lighting protocols such as sACN, Art-Net, and Pathport. This eliminates the need for additional processing nodes, further enhancing its value.The MQ250M is designed with an inbuilt UPS, making it a standalone 64/128 universe lighting control solution. Its motorized function allows the playback section to be used for multiple purposes, with shortcut buttons to change the function. With up to six banks, a total of 202 playbacks can be accessed at the touch of a button.The MagicQ MQ250M supports various fader modes, offering versatility for a wide range of applications. The programmer modes provide access to intensities for each patched fixture, groups of fixtures, or individual channels of a fixture. The master modes offer instant master control of individual fixtures or groups of fixtures, perfect for live moments when lights need adjusting.The console's dual 100mm crossfade faders, along with the prominently placed large GO and BACK buttons, provide an ultimate theatre control experience. The playback encoders can control intensity, LTP channels, FX size, FX speed, rate, and time, and can be assigned to control cue stacks of their own, the fader playback below, or even a whole bank or page of playbacks.The MQ250M offers a new level of customization with backlit keys, illuminated fader tracks, and encoders. Each playback fader track and playback encoder top features full RGB illumination, allowing its function to be clearly indicated. Users can select standard functions or customize each Cue Stack individually.Built on the reliable stadium software, the MagicQ MQ250M is compatible with MQ500M, Stadium Connect, and all other ChamSys consoles, making it easy to transition between consoles. Unique to ChamSys, show files are both forwards and backwards compatible, eliminating concerns about software versions. This console is the ultimate tool for lighting professionals seeking a versatile, reliable, and portable lighting control solution.

After enhancing your MagicQ MQ70 Compact Lighting Control Console with this 48-Universe Upgrade, you'll unlock unparalleled control and sophistication in your lighting management. Designed by the esteemed brand Chamsys, this upgrade seamlessly integrates with the MagicQ software, maintaining the user-friendly experience you trust while significantly expanding your creative potential.With this advanced upgrade, your console will effortlessly manage up to 48 universes of lighting, eliminating the need for extra processing hardware. This makes it an ideal solution for professional lighting designers and technicians who demand a reliable, high-capacity system for orchestrating intricate lighting effects during stage performances and live events.The sophisticated capabilities of this upgrade are matched by an innovative interface that simplifies complex tasks. Whether you're coordinating a small theater production or a large-scale concert, this upgrade ensures that your MagicQ MQ70 remains at the cutting edge of lighting control technology.Choose the 48-Universe Upgrade for your MagicQ MQ70 and experience the pinnacle of professional lighting control, where innovation meets user-friendly design to empower your most ambitious lighting projects.

Let the MagicQ MQ500M Stadium DMX Lighting Control Console with Flight Case elevate your lighting control to new heights. This sophisticated and high-tech console is designed for professional use, offering unparalleled control over 256 universes directly from the console, eliminating the need for external processors. The MQ500M features a large 15-inch touchscreen display, making navigation through various features and settings a breeze. The console's advanced technology includes RGB illuminated, fully motorised faders and encoders, providing 42 playbacks. The backlit keys enhance programming, while the option to connect a MagicQ MQ500M Wing offers even greater control. The built-in 256-universes DMX interface allows for the control of a large number of lighting fixtures, making this console ideal for larger events and productions. The MQ500M supports industry-standard lighting protocols such as sACN, Art-Net, and Pathport, offering real value for money. The console's motorised function allows the playback section to be used for multiple purposes, with shortcut buttons to change the function. With 15 motorised faders and 15 playback encoders per bank, and up to six banks, a total of 180 playbacks can be accessed at the touch of a button. The MQ500M is not just functional, but also customizable. The backlit keys, illuminated fader tracks, and encoders, and glowing pockets, along with updated graphics, allow lighting designers to configure the console to their needs. Built on the reliable MQ500 software, the MQ500M is compatible with all other ChamSys consoles, making it easy to move between consoles. The console also features two inbuilt full HD multi-touch displays with adjustable viewing angles, and the option to connect up to five additional touch monitors via network. In conclusion, the MagicQ MQ500M Stadium DMX Lighting Control Console with Flight Case is a versatile, advanced, and professional solution for all your lighting control needs.

Take your lighting design to the next level with the QuickQ 30 DMX Lighting Control Console, a sophisticated and advanced member of the ChamSys QuickQ range. This high-tech console is the ideal solution for controlling dimmer, LED color mixing, and moving light fixtures, making it a versatile choice for professional lighting applications.The QuickQ 30 boasts a large 9.7-inch touch screen, featuring a smartphone-like interface for intuitive setup, programming, and playback of your show. This innovative console can automatically detect, patch, and configure RDM compliant fixtures, streamlining your setup process. With built-in WiFi capabilities, the QuickQ 30 allows for remote connections to the free QuickQ app, available on iOS, Android, and Windows tablets and phones. Simply scan the QR code on the console display to easily connect the app, enhancing your control and flexibility.The console's user-friendly design includes easy-to-understand buttons and faders, simple color selection and intensity control tools, and a large touch screen with zooming and scrolling capabilities. It also features a simple cue/chase system for playback, making it accessible for novice users while still offering the advanced features professionals need.The QuickQ 30 also offers free to download offline programming software for Mac and Windows, including the ChamSys MagicVis visualizer. This allows you to program your show on your computer, save it onto a flash drive, and load it onto the QuickQ console for seamless integration.With the QuickQ 30, you'll have access to ChamSys' extensive and continuously updated personality library, boasting over 30,000 personalities. Plus, QuickQ shows are compatible and can be loaded onto any MagicQ system, allowing for future progression onto ChamSys' more advanced MagicQ range of consoles.From its smartphone-inspired icon interfaces for ease of use to its dedicated color control area with Hue and Saturation encoders, the QuickQ 30 DMX Lighting Control Console is a professional, innovative solution for all your lighting control needs.

Enhance your lighting control with the QuickQ 20 DMX Lighting Control Console, a premium product from ChamSys' QuickQ range. This user-friendly and cost-effective console is an ideal solution for controlling dimmer, LED color mixing, and moving light fixtures. The QuickQ 20 boasts a large 9.7-inch touchscreen, designed with a smartphone-like interface for easy setup, programming, and playback of your show. This console is equipped with automatic detection and patching of RDM compliant fixtures, and in-built WIFI capabilities for seamless remote connection to the free QuickQ app, available on iOS, Android, and Windows tablets and phones. Connecting the app is a breeze - simply scan the QR code on the console display. The console features intuitive buttons and faders, straightforward color selection and intensity control tools, and a large touchscreen with zooming and scrolling capabilities. It also includes a simple cue/chase system for playback, making it an excellent choice for novice users. The QuickQ interface guides you effortlessly through setup, programming, and operation of the console. The console also offers free offline programming software for Mac and Windows. This allows you to program your show on your computer, save it to a flash drive, and load it onto the QuickQ console. The QuickQ 20 utilizes ChamSys' extensive and continuously updated personality library, boasting over 30,000 personalities. QuickQ shows are compatible and can be loaded onto any MagicQ system, facilitating future progression onto ChamSys' more advanced MagicQ range of consoles. This console is modelled on smartphone icon interfaces for ease of use, supports gestures such as pinch zoom and scrolling, and allows easy connection to the remote app on iOS & Android devices via inbuilt Wi-Fi. The QuickQ 20 features 20 multi-function fixture faders with three different modes - Fixture, Group, and Cue, and 10 multi-cue Playback faders, which are legended on screen. It also includes a dedicated Grand Master fader for overall level control. The console also has a dedicated "color control area" with Hue and Saturation encoders, and allows selection from inbuilt palettes and gel libraries using the touchscreen. It also includes a built-in color picker for use with LED fixtures. QuickQ supports output of DMX over network via ArtNet/sACN/Pathport and remote triggering of Playbacks and Execute items via OSC. The software includes an offline editor available for both Windows and Mac, regular software updates, easy upgrades, automated patching, HSV color mixing, color picker, built-in FX, chase support, master cue stack, execute window, and audio triggering. In summary, the QuickQ 20 DMX Lighting Control Console is a comprehensive solution for all your lighting control needs, offering user-friendly operation, advanced features, and compatibility with a wide range of devices and systems.

QuickQ 10 is part of ChamSys QuickQ range of user friendly and affordable lighting control consoles. The QuickQ 10 is the perfect choice console for control of dimmer and LED color mixing fixtures. The console features a large 9.7 inch touch screen utilising a smart phone like interface for setup, programming and playback of your show.The console can automatically detect and patch RDM compliant fixtures and features in-built WIFI enabling remote connection to the free QuickQ app available on iOS, Andoid and Windows tablets and phones. Easily connect the app by simply scanning the QR code on the console display.The console has easy-to-understand buttons and faders, simple color selection and intensity control tools, a large touch screen with zooming and scrolling at your fingertips, as well as a simple cue/chase system for playback. Specifically aimed at the novice user, the QuickQ interface easily leads you through setup, programming and operation of the console.The console has a free to download offline programming software available for Mac and Windows. You can program your show on your computer, save it onto a flash drive and load it onto the QuickQ console.QuickQ uses ChamSys extensive and continuously updated personality library with over 30,000 personalities.QuickQ shows are compatible can be loaded onto any MagicQ system allowing future progression onto ChamSys more advanced MagicQ range of consoles.Overview• Modelled on smartphone icon interfaces for ease of use• Intuitive interface allowing simple control of all fixture attributes• The interface supports gestures such pinch zoom and scrolling• Easily connect to the remote app on iOS & Android devices via inbuilt Wi-FiPlayback Faders• 20 multi-function fixture faders with 3 different modes - Fixture, Group and Cue• 3 multi-cue Playback faders: two Chase controllers and one Cue Stack, which are legended on screen• The console features a dedicated Grand Master fader for overall level controlColor Control• A dedicated "color control area" with Hue and Saturation encoders• Select from inbuilt palettes and gel libraries using the touch screen• Built in color picker for use with LED fixturesNetworking• QuickQ supports output of DMX over network via ArtNet/sACN/PathportSoftware• Offline editor available for both Windows and Mac• Regular software updates• Easy Upgrades• Automated Patching• HSV Color Mixing• Color Picker• Built-in FX• Chase Support• Master Cue Stack• Execute Window• Audio Triggering • Tap to Time

While maintaining the user-friendly interface of the MagicQ software you've come to trust, the Chamsys 128-Universe Upgrade for MagicQ MQ250M Stadium DMX Lighting Control Console elevates your lighting control capabilities to a whole new level. This advanced upgrade is specifically engineered to seamlessly integrate with your MagicQ MQ250M Stadium DMX Lighting Control Console, enabling you to manage up to 128 universes without the need for any additional processing equipment. As a sophisticated solution from Chamsys, a leading brand in the professional lighting industry, this high-tech upgrade is designed to meet the demands of lighting designers and technicians working in stadiums or large venues. Its innovative features allow for precise control and management of complex lighting effects, ensuring a spectacular visual experience at every event. Whether you're orchestrating a grand concert or a high-profile sports event, the Chamsys 128-Universe Upgrade for MagicQ MQ250M Stadium DMX Lighting Control Console offers the professional-grade performance and reliability you need to bring your lighting visions to life.

Book is in Used-VeryGood condition. Pages and cover are clean and intact. Used items may not include supplementary materials such as CDs or access codes. May show signs of minor shelf wear and contain very limited notes and highlighting. 0.79

The MagicQ MQ80 is an extremely powerful console in a small size, supporting 48 universes direct from the console and 4 DMX ports supporting RDM, but still fits with in checked luggage restrictions.It has a large 12" high resolution display provides easy access to all MagicQ features including the Plot window where fixtures can be selected and focused graphically.MagicQ MQ80 features the same software found on all MagicQ consoles, and uses the same show file formats, enabling compatibility between all MagicQ products. MagicQ MQ80 can be connected over network to a PC or Mac running the free ChamSys free MagicVis lighting visualisation software, or MagicHD media player software (for output of up to 8 layers of HD media) at no extra cost.The construction of the MagicQ MQ80 incorporates high reliability components, including durable metal Neutrik locking connectors. The inbuilt 4 port Ethernet switch is protected by the UPS, thus ensuring that both the console and the network switch maintain operation even during a power loss.The console features a Kensington security slot for securing the product. Both soft bags and flight cases are available as optional extras.Note: Originally 24 universes - increased to 48 from software version 1.8.4.5.Extra Compact WingThe Extra Wing Compact is designed to allow users of MagicQ to extend the number of physical playbacks available to them. It has a total of 24 playbacks. Made up of 12 fader and 12 executable playbacks.Each section of playbacks can page through multiple playbacks via its own Next and Previous page buttons. The 12 playback faders feature Flash, Go and Select buttons, while the other 12 are more space-saving, employing one a Select and Execute button for each playback. All playbacks feature LCD displays for playback legending directly above each playback.The Extra Wing Compact is a modular expansion device for the ChamSys MagicQ console series. It features an internal USB hub which enables multiple Extra Wings to be connected together. Other rear panel connections include a locking Neutrik Powercon connector, a USB socket for connection to the main MagicQ system, and a working light socket.MagicQ SoftwareMagicQ software offers powerful lighting control with loads of features that lighting designers have some to rely on, such as full lighting visualisation, pixel mapping, and HD media playback on up to 8 different layers, all integrated smoothly to streamline workflows, save time, and shorten learning curve.

A literary celebration of Samuel Beckett's influence on postmodernism. With a tree, a country road, and two tramps waiting haplessly for a Godot who never comes, Samuel Beckett epitomized for theatergoers around the world the at-once comical and terrifying condition of being human in an uncertain universe. He would follow the groundbreaking Waiting for Godot with startlingly innovative plays like the drama Endgame as well as Krapp's Last Tape and Happy Days. Plays like these together with poetry, short fiction, and novels, notably the mind-bending trilogy of Molloy, Malone Dies, and The Unnamable―contemplated here by the eminent novelist, poet, essayist, and biographer Anthony Cronin―would secure for the Irish-born Beckett the Nobel Prize for literature in 1969.The masterly work of Samuel Beckett radically changed the way we as readers and theatergoers perceive our experience in a world that more often than not painfully eludes our comprehension and articulation. His vision unsparing, shaped by bare-bones language that artistically transcends its own limitations, Beckett distinctively altered the literary landscape of the twentieth century. That magical terrain, as rich in enigma as it is in humor, is explored anew in this celebratory volume by editor Christopher Murray and twelve other outstanding Beckett authorities, among them John Banville, winner of the 2005 Man Booker Prize; the distinguished literary critic Richard Kearney; Oxford lecturer in drama Rosemary Pountney; and actor Barry McGovern, who has toured worldwide both in Godot and in the one-man Beckett show I'll Go On.

Samuel Bak's most recent series of paintings, New Perceptions of Old Appearances, is a tribute to the power of the metaphorical imagination. Using the pear as a substitute image for the familiar apple of Eden, Bak explores the struggle of modern civilization to wrest from our fragile universe a viable mode of communal existence. Bak's pears are stoic in their solidity, but vulnerable to decay. In some guises they shine with the beauty of succulent fruit, but in others they fall victim to the violence of history and the decay of time. In this bookfilled with color illustrationsLawrence L. Langer shows the versatility and uniqueness of Bak's art. His pears play many roles, challenging the viewer to interpret their enigmatic presences without having to search for a single dogmatic meaning. While some, laden with promise, proclaim the inherent dignity of artistic form, others remind us, as they are consumed by fire or sacrificed on strange altars, of what Bak has called the "ineffaceable tragedy and sadness" that has been part of our lot as human creatures during the past hundred years. His images are both ripe with life and haunted by death.

Samuel Bak's most recent series of paintings, New Perceptions of Old Appearances, is a tribute to the power of the metaphorical imagination. Using the pear as a substitute image for the familiar apple of Eden, Bak explores the struggle of modern civilization to wrest from our fragile universe a viable mode of communal existence. Bak's pears are stoic in their solidity, but vulnerable to decay. In some guises they shine with the beauty of succulent fruit, but in others they fall victim to the violence of history and the decay of time. In this bookfilled with color illustrationsLawrence L. Langer shows the versatility and uniqueness of Bak's art. His pears play many roles, challenging the viewer to interpret their enigmatic presences without having to search for a single dogmatic meaning. While some, laden with promise, proclaim the inherent dignity of artistic form, others remind us, as they are consumed by fire or sacrificed on strange altars, of what Bak has called the "ineffaceable tragedy and sadness" that has been part of our lot as human creatures during the past hundred years. His images are both ripe with life and haunted by death.

The story of two mothers and a father in love with the same daughter, Samuel Shem's At the Heart of the Universe is an epic novel set deep in rural China against the backdrop of an ancient mountain monastery during the time of the one-child-per-family policy. Inspired by the author's experiences as parent of an adopted child, it describes the drama of adoption and the journey of loss and rebirth that can happen when a daughter brings together her adopted mother and father with her birth mother high on a mountaintop.Set in 1991 in Changsha, capital of Hunan province, as a Chinese woman abandons her one-month-old daughter in a pile of celery in a busy market, and then shifting to Changsha ten years later as the daughter returns with her adopted American parents, the story moves across southern China until, high atop Emei San, one of China's "sacred mountains" with a Buddhist temple, the four are brought together in the wilderness—a perilous and explosive time that unleashes their heartbreak and suffering and, remarkably, transcends it to shared compassion, and new beginnings.

In The Mirror, the Window, and the Telescope, Samuel Y. Edgerton brings fresh insight to a subject of perennial interest to the history of art and science in the West: the birth of linear perspective. Edgerton retells the fascinating story of how perspective emerged in early fifteenth-century Florence, growing out of an artistic and religious context in which devout Christians longed for divine presence in their daily lives. And yet, ironically, its discovery would have a profound effect not only on the history of art but on the history of science and technology, ultimately undermining the very medieval Christian cosmic view that gave rise to it in the first place. Among Edgerton's cast of characters is Filippo Brunelleschi, who first demonstrated how a familiar object could be painted in a picture exactly as it appeared in a mirror reflection. Brunelleschi communicated the principles of this new perspective to his artist friends Donatello, Masaccio, Masolino, and Fra Angelico. But it was the humanist scholar Leon Battista Alberti who codified Brunelleschi's perspective rules into a simple formula that even mathematically disadvantaged artists could understand. By looking through a window the geometric beauties of this world were revealed without the theological implications of a mirror reflection. Alberti's treatise, "On Painting," spread the new concept throughout Italy and transalpine Europe, even influencing later scientists including Galileo Galilei. In fact, it was Galileo's telescope, called at the time a "perspective tube," that revealed the earth to be not a mirror reflection of the heavens, as Brunelleschi had advocated, but just the other way around.Building on the knowledge he has accumulated over his distinguished career, Edgerton has written the definitive, up-to-date work on linear perspective, showing how this simple artistic tool did indeed change our present vision of the universe.