Graphical viewing at a distance: graphical analytics as a method for the investigation of illustrated books

Abstract

In this research article, graphical analytics is presented as a method for the investigation of page/layout- and image-based materials. This approach is used to analyse image composition, image constellations and the layout of the examined books, and it facilitates a comparison across several books within a single visualization. The methodology is introduced and the epistemology explained, along with concepts such as framework, simulative and heuristic models, and image constellations. Methodological steps like the establishment of the data set, the collection of specific data, the organization of the information architecture, and the design of the display of these data are explained. The method is illustrated through a case study on nine illustrated books on non-human primates. This material is analysed according to given research questions on the proximity of non-human primates and human beings being depicted in the images of these books, and on the differences between the illustrated books with respect to their target audiences. The findings of our graphical analytics reveal patterns of proximity between humans and non-human primates as well as the iconology of the Book of Genesis in the pictorial and textual materials used by these illustrated books. This contribution presents an introduction to graphical analytics with an exemplary application.