Whole Properties as Determinants of Determinants

Abstract

The relation between Gestalt properties of wholes according to W. Metzger and the Rorschach determinants is examined, (a) Essence or physiognomic characteristic is what most easily arouses affect. Pure colors, being pure essence, account for the chromatic determinant, (b) Structure reveals itself in form, accounting for the form determinant, (c) Quality, the nature, condition or property of a thing, is best seen in shading, wherefore the use of this determinant indicates the prevailing quality of mood, (d) Movement is determined by structure, but also by the capacity for dynamic resonance and human intimacy.