The double gamma function and Vladimir Alekseevsky

Abstract: Considering the Weierstrass product for the entire function $\sin \pi x$ and taking half of the factors corresponding to non-positive roots, we obtain the function $1/\Gamma(x)$. Considering the Weierstrass product for the Jacobi theta function $\vartheta_1$ and taking quarter of the factors (corresponding to the positive quadrant in the lattice $n_1\omega+n_2\omega_2$ of periods), we come to the double gamma function. It satisfies big collection of identities parallel to properties of $\Gamma(x)$. We discuss the seminal work (1888-89) by V.P.Alekseevsky, where the double gamma function was introduced and investigated. His standpoint was the paper by P.\'E.Appell (1881) on extensions of Heine's $q$-version of the Euler gamma function. For the case of equal periods $\omega_1=\omega_2$, a function equivalent to the double gamma function was introduced earlier by H.Kinkelin (1860). After Alekseevsky, the double gamma function was a topic of investigations by E.W.Barnes, J.Beaupin, G.H.Hardy, V.A.Steklov in 1899-1907. It was quite unusual compared to special functions known at that time. Despite obviously bright publications, the function was forgotten until 1976-1979, when it appeared again in works by T.Shintani and M.V.Vign\'eras. In the same time, Shintani introduced the double sine as a product of two double gammas. We also discuss the biography of Alekseevsky (1858-1916).