The text discusses how perception and experience influence our understanding of the size and configuration of objects. It explains that while objects might appear smaller or larger due to visual circumstances, they aren't necessarily so. The author compares this to recognizing human forms in art, noting that experience helps us discern proportions correctly, unlike children, who judge differently. It also touches upon optical illusions similar to seeing objects in a mirror.
The Human Figures, &c.
Although certain objects appear smaller than others to the eye—they seem smaller in reality—we do not judge that they are indeed smaller. This is due to their manner and breadth of motion when conveyed to the optic nerves, and the proportional strength of the colors in relation to the distance and amount of air they must pass through. Our experience and reasoning allow us to determine whether objects are far or near, large or small, similar or different. This is similar to how an intelligent person sees a stick standing in clear water as straight, even if it appears bent due to the refraction of water.
Our education and experience allow us to differentiate this, whereas children hold a completely different judgment. We apply this to depicted objects in illustrations or prints: for instance, in an image that barely shows the size of a fly, we can recognize the proportions and configuration of a large and vigorous human being. Conversely, in another image larger than a grown man, we can see the figure of a small child if its parts and limbs are depicted accordingly.
It is noted that part of this depends on the circumstances such that we always see objects behind the mirror as if they were set against it, which helps us understand the stated subject.
Translation Notes:
- "Mensch-beelden" is translated to "Human Figures." - "Gesigt-Senuwen" refers to "optic nerves." - "Verwen" means "colors or pigments."