Perspective in perspective

First published in 1983, this study asks how accurately we perceive the world, and how far that perception matches what we believe we see. It then follows the long effort to capture it on paper, panels, photographs, film and television. Wherever a picture aims for realism, perspective plays a part, and knowing its principles makes the result easier to appreciate.

Wright handles the geometry without leaning on heavy mathematics, explaining it through plain reasoning. He argues that every system of perspective contains some built-in distortion, yet most work well enough as a practical compromise. He shows that the strict rules are often stretched in practice and that artists have long relied on shortcuts that save labour. Beginners may find the subject easier than they expected, while experienced practitioners may be surprised by some of the points raised.

The book is written mainly for the general reader, though students and aspiring artists or architects will also find it useful as groundwork for more detailed study. Its aim is to change how readers look at both real scenes and their representations.