D. Balance
1. Balance is an integral part of the aesthetics in a bonsai
composition.
a. Much of Western art relies on symmetrical balance as
seen in the design of a formal English garden which
uses basic geometric shapes such as the circle, square
and triangle.
b. Of the various geometric shapes, the triangle best
represents strength and stability. The equilateral
triangle is static, inactive, passive and motionless;
elements to be avoided in most Oriental art.
c. The isosceles triangle, having three unequal sides, is not
static, supplies variety and a feeling of motion, and in its own
way provides an asymmetrical balance.
(1) The unequal, or asymmetrical triangle,
lacking equality or symmetry, is the
concept upon which a unique type of
balance can be achieved.