The background to perspective

This paper presents Leonardo's theory of picture perception as a model of a productive theory. The theory itself will not stand up to modern cnticism hut was nevertheless the essential basis for the development o f a communicative technology (perspective naturalism) of remarkable and continuing power. The author concludes that the most productive theorising from the designer's point of view is likely to occur within his own discipline, and that designers must have the confidence to pursue enquiries even though they may lack the kind of ngour that is thought essential in some other areas.