Archimedes' Stomachion . . . An elephant in the square . . . The Loculus of Archimedes . . . The problem that drives one mad . . .

I am intrigued by this puzzle and found a wooden version for sale via mail order some time ago.  What follows is a translation (it's mine, so pretty rudimentary) of the instructions which came with the puzzle.  Unfortunately the puzzle I bought was not cut correctly.  I used a thin, coated magnetic craft sheet to cut my own set of pieces to work with.

Wooden puzzle cut differently . . .

Here are the instructions from the puzzle I bought: "This two-dimensional 14-piece puzzle is actually a supertangram.  The loculus (small case) was designed by Archimedes.  The poet Ausonius (310-395 B.C.) writes of this puzzle for the first time in his book, 'Liber XVII Cento nuptalis.' "Only a specialist is able to place some figures.  You can attempt to place an elephant, a flying goose, a wild bear, a hunter, a dog, a tower, a pot, and a gladiator with net and helmet.  Consequently, this is the oldest puzzle of the world proved in writing. "The puzzle is also known under the name 'Stomachion.'  This name means the problem which makes one insane.  When enclosing the figure, all pieces must be employed.  The 18 placing figures represented are known up to now and handed down.  One is not absolutely sure whether even further figures can be placed from the puzzle parts."

For another interesting view of the Stomachion, click here.  Search for "Loculus" in the page . . .

. . . here are further figures :)  let's go forward with more!

Stomachion Dance . . .

Visit the Son of Stomachion

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