In Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall," a character reflects on the esteemed work of Brother Luca Pacioli, who dedicated three decades to writing his influential book, "Summa de Arithmetica." The book is described as extraordinarily beautiful, bound in deep green leather with a gold-tooling border and gilt-edged pages that shimmer in light. The ornate clasps adorned with translucent garnets enhance its allure, creating a sense of reverence and hesitance in the character as he considers opening it.

The boy hesitates to explore the contents but is encouraged to do so, highlighting the book's significance and the awe it inspires. Upon opening, he discovers a woodcut illustration of Pacioli himself, contributing to the sense of wonder surrounding both the author and the work, emphasizing the connection between mathematics and its profound impact on knowledge and learning.