Modified Mercalli Scale, 1987-1988

earth science subject to the forces it describes

This sandstone installation lists the Mercalli intensity descriptions used to measure the severity of earthquakes. As opposed to the Richter scale, the Mercalli approach defines intensity as noticeable effects experienced at the earthquake site.

In this installation, the Mercalli scale lies broken on the ground, leaving the viewer with the impression it was subject to the very forces it diligently tabulates.

Acknowledgements
Photo by Anita Studer.