Paper Crystallisations

Abstract This essay investigates the graphical and diagrammatic techniques the Dutch mathematician and natural philosopher Christiaan Huygens (1629–1695) employs in his meteorological investigations. A distinction is discerned between Huygens’ drawings of crystalline structures under the microscope, and his hypothetical modelling of different types of atmospheric light-refracting bodies. It is demonstrated, however, that both domains of inquiry are intricately connected through Huygens’ longstanding interest in “wondrous” light refraction phenomena in the atmosphere, such as solar halos and parhelia.