DEFINITION OF VALUE-RELATIONS

130. The best method of describing and distinguishing these

value-contrasts will be to use the value-names in a form of fractions.

For example, Lt/D would mean a contrast of Dark on Light, D/Lt would

mean a contrast of Light on Dark, Wt/Blk would mean a contrast of Black

on White. That is to say, White is subdivided or crossed by Black. When

we wish to describe several contrasts in combination, we set the value

of the ground-tone above the line, always, the value of the tone or

tones put upon it below, thus:—

Lt

-----------

Wt Blk

This formula means, spots of White and Black on a ground of Light.

Lt

--------------

Wt Blk

---

M

This formula means spots of White and Black on a ground-tone of Light,

with a spot of Middle on the White, the Middle being altogether

separated from the Light by the White.

There is no definite thinking except in definite terms, and without

some such terminology as I have devised and described, it will be

impossible to enter upon an experimental practice in value-relations

with the hope of definite results. With definite terms, however, we can

take up the practice in value-relations with a good chance of learning,

in the course of time, all that there is to be learned.

A theory of pure design · 第 80 / 156 题