The Triangle of Aesthetic Beauty

Wholeness, Harmony, and Radiance

The triangle of Wholeness, Harmony, and Radiance represents the classical principles of beauty as articulated by Thomas Aquinas. Together, these elements define the harmony, wholeness, and radiance found in truly beautiful objects or experiences.

1. Wholeness (Integritas): Wholeness (Integritas) refers to the completeness or unity of an object. For something to be beautiful, it must be whole and coherent, with all parts working together to form a balanced and self-contained entity.

2. Harmony (Consonantia): Harmony (Consonantia) is the proportion and harmony between the parts of the whole. It reflects the balance and order that create aesthetic pleasure, where no element feels out of place or discordant.

3. Radiance (Claritas): Radiance (Claritas) is the brilliance or clarity that reveals the essence of the object. It conveys the deeper truth or purpose, making the beauty evident and uplifting to the observer.

   
   

Balancing integritas, consonantia, and claritas creates an experience of beauty that resonates deeply with the human spirit.