Quantitative Analysis of the Structural Beauty of Japanese Brush Calligraphy by Means of a High Speed Universal Computer (I)

S. Ozawa¹ and N. Higuchi²

¹Department of Numerical Science, Faculty of Engineering, Ibaraki University, Nakanarusawa, Hitachi 316, Japan
²Department of Japanese Literature, Tokyo Seitoku Junior College, Jujyodai, Kitaku, Tokyo 114, Japan

(Received December 12, 1988; Accepted December 22, 1988)

Keywords: Image Data, 1/f Fluctuation, Calligraphy, Correlation Function, Fourier Analysis

Abstract. This paper reports preliminary data from a quantitative analysis of the structural beauty of Japanese brush calligraphy works, together with a critical examination of the data input process. Two-dimensional image data of Japanese brush calligraphy works inputted through an image scanner are analyzed by pattern processing programs stored in a universal computer. The autocorrelation function of specimens shows a characteristic structure in the long distance range. Furthermore, Fourier analysis of specimens shows a 1/f power spectrum. These experimental results are discussed in relation to the source of the beauty of Japanese calligraphy works.