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Quote by Ananda K. Coomaraswamy

“This theory of beauty is not developed with respect to artefacts alone, but universally. It is independent of taste, for it is recognized that as Augustine says, there are those who take pleasure in deformities. The word deformity is significant here, because it is precisely a formal beauty that is in question; and we must not forget that "formal" includes the connotation "formative." The recognition of beauty depends on judgment, not on sensation; the beauty of the æsthetic surfaces depending on their information, and not upon themselves, Everything, whether natural or artificial, is beautiful to the extent that it really is what it purports to be, and independently of all comparisons; or ugly to the extent that its own form is not expressed and realized in its tangible actuality. The work of art is beautiful, accordingly, in terms of perfection, or truth and aptitude as defined above; whatever is inept or vague cannot be considered beautiful, however it may be valued by those who "know what they like.”

Quote by Ananda K. Coomaraswamy

Book:Christian & Oriental Philosophy of Art Formerly: "Why Exhibit Works of Art?"
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Christian & Oriental Philosophy of Art Formerly: "Why Exhibit Works of Art?"

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Ananda K. Coomaraswamy

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