Fig. 32
Here the same relation is repeated, with its inversion to the right on a vertical axis. The result is an obvious symmetrical balance. If this inversion were made on any other than the vertical axis, the result would be Balance but not Symmetry. The balance would still be axial, but the axis, not being vertical, the balance would not be symmetrical.
36. In the case of any unsymmetrical arrangement of dots, the dots become equal attractions in the field of vision, provided they are near enough together to be seen together. To be satisfactorily seen as a single composition or group they ought to lie, all of them, within a visual angle of thirty degrees. We may, within these limits, disregard the fact that visual attractions lose their force as they are removed from the center of the field of vision. As equal attractions in the field of vision, the dots in any unsymmetrical arrangement may be brought into a balance by weighing the several attractions and indicating what I might call the center of equilibrium. This is best done by means of a symmetrical inclosure or frame. In ascertaining just where the center is, in any case, we depend upon visual sensitiveness or visual feeling, guided by an understanding of the principle of balance: that equal attractions, tensions or pulls, balance at equal distances from a given center, that unequal attractions balance at distances inversely proportional to them. Given certain attractions, to find the center, we weigh the attractions together in the field of vision and observe the position of the center. In simple cases we may be able to prove or disprove our visual feeling by calculations and reasoning. In cases, however, where the attractions vary in their tones, measures, and shapes, and where there are qualities as well as quantities to be considered, calculations and reasoning become difficult if not impossible, and we have to depend upon visual sensitiveness. All balances of positions, as indicated by dots corresponding in tone, measure, and shape, are balances of equal attractions, and the calculation to find the center is a very simple one.
Fig. 33
Here, for example, the several attractions, corresponding and equal, lie well within the field of vision. The method followed to balance them is that which I have just described. The center of equilibrium was found and then indicated by a symmetrical framing. Move the frame up or down, right or left, and the center of the frame and the center of the attractions within it will no longer coincide, and the balance will be lost. We might say of this arrangement that it is a Harmony of Positions due to the coincidence of two centers, the center of the attractions and the center of the framing.
37. It will be observed that the force of the symmetrical inclosure should be sufficient to overpower any suggestion of movement which may lie in the attractions inclosed by it.
Fig. 34