UK mathematician debunks myth around Parthenon's optical illusions
4 hours ago
- A mathematician has debunked the myth that the Parthenon's curves were designed to correct optical illusions.
- The myth originated from the 1st-century Roman architect Vitruvius, writing 400 years after the temple's construction.
- No evidence was found for the claimed illusions, such as the base appearing to sag or columns looking too narrow.
- The Hering illusion does not apply to the Parthenon's vertical columns, and the effect is imperceptible in 3D.
- The bulges in the columns (entasis) are only 18mm, barely noticeable from typical viewing distances.
- Goriely suggests the curves may have had practical purposes, like preventing rain puddles, or aesthetic reasons.
- The study invites readers to trust their own eyes and question the theory of optical corrections.
- Experts note that Vitruvius's explanations have long been treated with caution by historians.