The method of choice may be adapted to the determination of the [esthetic value of elemen tary musical combinations. We obtain thus a graded series of pleasantnesses for tonal inter vals both when the constituent tones are given simultaneously (see FUSION), and when they are given successively. There is afforded in this way an opportunity to compare directly the result of experimentation and the elements of musical composition established by generations of practice. It must be added that simple musi cal combinations offer a particularly good field for experimental exploration of the [esthetic feel ings. because the direct, sensuous factor plays a much more important role here than in spatial form, and the associative factor is correspond ingly less prominent. This is especially true of rhythm.
Filially, [esthetic preference in the realm of color. saturation, and brightness has been deter mined by the method of paired comparisons—the observer comparing in turn a red, then a green, then a blue, etc.. with each of the other members in a series of colors, and also by passing judg ment on those visual sensations taken singly.
The chief results are these: (1) the most satu rated colors are usually preferred; (2) given likeness of saturation, individual preferences vary from colo•-tone to eolo•-tone, and (3) with colors which are equally pleasing, the combina tion of any two gives greater satisfaction the more unlike (contrasting) the colors.
Consult: G. T. Fechner, experimentalca Acsihrt ik (Leipzig. 1871) ; orsch ale der :les t/LOH; (Leipzig, 1876) ; T. Lipps, MI/must/leak stud !Iconic/Tisch-opt/se/le Tiiuschungen (Leipzig, 1897) ; George Santayana, The Sense of Beauty; Outlines of .I:sthetie Theory New York. 'tint)).
or or ESTI VAL (Lat. of summer, from testas, summer). Plants \chose conspicuous functions, e.peeiall• the blooming of the flower, occur in summer, are said In be :estival. Prairie plants, (Teti:illy of the conqmsite family. are largely mstival. and contrast strongly with the vernal plants of the woods. such as many members of the lily family.