Theophilus (the monk)

Theophilus the Monk was a Byzantine thinker and author who lived around the 12th century. He is best known for his treatise on the art of making various substances, such as glass and ceramics. His work, "On Divers Arts," is one of the earliest detailed accounts of technological processes in medieval times, blending practical knowledge with philosophical reflections. Theophilus emphasized the importance of craftsmanship and the interplay between art and science, influencing both medieval artisans and later scholars interested in technology and material culture. His contributions highlight the significance of skilled labor in the context of cultural and intellectual history.