Reconstruction and extension of lost symmetries: Examples from the Tamil of South India

Abstract

AbstractMany traditional Tamil threshold designs are made out of one closed, smooth line. An investigation of Tamil patterns which do not conform to their cultural standard as they are composed of two, three or more superimposed closed paths, shows that these designs are “degraded” versions of originally more symmetrical patterns made out of single “never-ending” lines. The probably original versions are reconstructed and their mathematical potential is explored