Alva Belmont, Profile Report (January 17, 1992)
From the Writing of Alva Vanderbilt Belmont
Graphological Psychogram (Roman-Staemptli) for Alva Belmont
The Psychogram Profile:
This pictorial characterization of the writer provides, at a glance, the vigor and frailties as observed in the writing. One of the strengths of the Psychogram itself is its measurements (in millimeters) of a third of the Indicators. The modal (most frequent) measurement is marked with the heavy blue line. The outer light green- and inner red-dotted lines on the Psychogram represent the degree of variability noted. Although the blue line depicts the most likely personality characteristic exhibited at the time of the writing, the dotted lines, the variation, suggest the potential of the personality as observed in the writing. The interpretation hinges on control of self in space/distance, a built-in sense of order, and clarity of thought. The score of 3.5 may be interpreted as leading to a highly formal attitude. When the writer would express the score of 2.5, the standard, one would observe a poised individual but should the other extreme score of 7.0 kick in, definitely an aloofness and detachment would be displayed. More information about the Psychogram can be obtained from Dr. Ellen Bowers at GRAPHEX International.
Graphological Psychogram (Roman-Staemptli) for Alva Vanderbilt Belmont
The Psychogram Profile protocol used for this report is based on the work of Hungarian born KIara Goldzieher Roman, who emigrated to the US in the 1940s. The Psychogram protocol is based on personality profile constructed in 8 Dimensions: Intellect; Ego; World Directedness; Emotional Release; Libido, Vitality, Drives (LVD); Repressions; Inhibitions & Overcontrol; and Control. The scores that are developed are based on a 5-point scale. Generally a score of 2.5 represents the mid-point of the scale.
Priority Order
Scores of 8 Dimensions
This pictorial characterization of the writer provides, at a glance, the vigor and frailties as observed in the writing. One of the strengths of the Psychogram itself is its measurements (in millimeters) of a third of the Indicators. The modal (most frequent) measurement is marked with the heavy blue line. The outer light green- and inner red-dotted lines on the Psychogram represent the degree of variability noted. Although the blue line depicts the most likely personality characteristic exhibited at the time of the writing, the dotted lines, the variation, suggest the potential of the personality as observed in the writing. The interpretation hinges on control of self in space/distance, a built-in sense of order, and clarity of thought. The score of 3.5 may be interpreted as leading to a highly formal attitude. When the writer would express the score of 2.5, the standard, one would observe a poised individual but should the other extreme score of 7.0 kick in, definitely an aloofness and detachment would be displayed. More information about the Psychogram can be obtained from Dr. Ellen Bowers at GRAPHEX International.
Graphological Psychogram (Roman-Staemptli) for Alva Vanderbilt Belmont
The Psychogram Profile protocol used for this report is based on the work of Hungarian born KIara Goldzieher Roman, who emigrated to the US in the 1940s. The Psychogram protocol is based on personality profile constructed in 8 Dimensions: Intellect; Ego; World Directedness; Emotional Release; Libido, Vitality, Drives (LVD); Repressions; Inhibitions & Overcontrol; and Control. The scores that are developed are based on a 5-point scale. Generally a score of 2.5 represents the mid-point of the scale.
Priority Order
Scores of 8 Dimensions
|
Priority No |
Dimension |
Score |
Standard
Score |
|
1 |
Intellect |
3.5 |
2.5 |
|
2 |
Control |
3.5 |
3.5 |
|
3 |
Repressions |
3.4 |
3.1 |
|
4 |
Ego |
3.0 |
2.3 |
|
5 |
Emotional
Release |
2.8 |
2.0 |
|
6 |
Drives |
2.8 |
2.3 |
|
7 |
Inhibitions,
Overcontrol |
2.6 |
1.9 |
|
8 |
World
Directedness |
2.4 |
2.6 |
THE REPORT
The Intellect Dimension, which comprises 7 different Indicators and more than 30 sub-indicators, dominated this writer's approach in life. The Intellect Dimension provides a clue of how well the writer uses her or his mental comprehension and understanding to address the daily activities and challenges. It does not necessarily relate to the writer's IQ.
This writer manifests a remarkable, innate intellectual ability which spills into the organizational structure [Organization 4.0] she applied not only for her own use but also probably for those around her. Her ability to cut through to the core of the ideas, issues, projects, and old conventions [Simplification of Form 4.0] contributed to her management expertise. Furthermore, she probably had little hesitancy about expressing her convictions in these areas [Originality 3.5].
At the time of her writing, she was probably more inclined toward practical considerations rather than matters of abstract interests [Upper Zone Height 2.0]. It is certainly possible that, at age 66, she had achieved so much that philosophic or abstract concepts held little interest for her. [Note: She was heavily involved with working to ensure passage of the 19th Amendment and with helping her daughter obtain a divorce.] Her superior intelligence would have supported the coping skills she had for dealing with life's demands. Assessing the timing appropriateness for interventions, verbal or action, was another innate skill evident in the writing of this remarkable woman.
To rein in some of the enthusiasm of which she was capable [Expressiveness 4.0], she more than likely effected a cool, sober exterior. Part of this cool exterior, no doubt, came from her sense of being directed and manipulated by outside influences. She probably was an individual who initially got all "fired up" over a concept or issue. Then there may have been a waning of enthusiasm followed by some external push before the "fire" returned. The ebb and flow of enthusiasm may have been related to the expectation levels of the issues in which she was involved at the time of the writing [Baseline/word steadiness].
For instance, if she committed to a project or issue and would have expected support which did not materialize, her commitment would carry her through, but lack of that support would have increased her tension level [Tension 4.0]. This type of experience may have had an eroding aspect on her ego [Ego Dimension 3.0]. However, with the strategist that existed within, it is unlikely that this situation would occur too frequently. In another circumstance, her enthusiasm would have sustained her as long as she was involved with the project. Her rewards probably would have been related to the goal itself rather than for personal achievements [MZ Height mode & Alignment Control].
A vibrant personality, who in many instances, may have been viewed as a nonconformist [Monotony 2.0]. Yet at times, she would draw into herself and could have manifested an ultraconservative approach [Range of MZ Height]. The latter may have been confined to treasuring of family patterns and relationships [Leftward Trend 3.0]. The conservative attitude could have been exhibited also in a reliance on "proper manners or dress." Her rational, precise thinking patterns are augmented by her willingness to "go to mat" for her beliefs [Angularity 4.0].
In this writing, there is a sense that the writer would give priority to others and to issues before considering her own needs [Repressions Dimension 3.4 & Narrowness 4.0]. This is not to say that she lacked a positive sense about herself. Quite to the contrary, she had a healthy ego strength [Ego Dimension 3.0].
She had the self-confidence that whatever she undertook would eventually turn out all right. It might not be within her time frame, but it would happen [Alignment 3.0]. Confidence exuded from this writer. It extended to the matter of her presence in the room -- it would be felt [MZH variation & first letters]. She was a commanding woman. Her capacity to dramatize would be the envy of any playwright [UZ Elaboration 3.0, Expressiveness 4.0 & UZ Dynamics 3.5]. In fact, she may have pursued a career in the arts -- she would have been a fantastic lecturer on art history [all of above + Left Trend 3.0]. Speaking and writing could have been her forte, as well. She could have and perhaps did carry "the message." With her investigative and analytical bent no subject area, once it appealed, could have escaped a thorough evaluation [Angularity 4.0]. There would have been times when she could have gotten caught up in her own feelings and her behaviors could seem to be self-centered and indecisive, even moody -- but with charm. There would have been times when her focus would have been so intense that all else would have been seemed nonexistent. [Arcades 4.0 + variation in MZHeight]
The residue of growing-up days for this writer suggests some troubled times. It is likely that the mother or mother image was perceived as the stricter, more authoritarian parent. There appears to have been a longing for or an appeal to the father or father image for warmth and affection. It could be also that this person was absent for whatever reasons from the family setting ["I" Emphasis 3.5 + Narrowness 4.0]. Also, with certain graphic patterns in the writing which suggest that her educational background may have had an European influence it could be that she studied at a special school or with special individuals, perhaps tutors, or possibly in Europe -- away from family.
As has been described above, the energy, both physical and mental, for the writer was about the same as most of us have. With each of us, we usually learn how to ration our energy so that when a little more is was called for, it is there [Drives 2.8]. At times, restlessness could overcome the writer with a flurry of activity following [LZ Length ranged to 4.0]. Or she may have diverted her energies into intellectual pursuits. More commonly, she was likely to have confined her activities to conventional work habits. Also, with the mental intensity of this writer, some may have had the impression of physical weakness which may or may not have been accurate [Sharpness 4.0].
Furthermore, the enjoyment of an elegant meal with vintage wine, fine art, the sense of touch as with fine woods or materials, experiencing a beautiful symphony -- the sensual aspects of life could have been quite meaningful to her [Pressure 3.0 + Pastosity 2.5 + MZH Range 4.5 + UZ Elaboration 3.0].
Her genuine warmth seems to relate more to things than with people. [Rightward Trend in MZ 4.5 + Garlands 2.5] She did enjoy being with people and would have likely been a most gracious hostess. Her guests would have enjoyed her charm and naturalness. The diplomacy which is apparent in the writing would match any that the most suave, the most sophisticated, of White House State dinner or receptions might have called for [Thread 2.0 + Word Spacing 3.5 + Ridigity 3.5]. However, if not pleased with an individual or situation, a more formal attitude, a stiffness, even abruptness could have been displayed. And she would have been quite alert to any indiscretions [Ridigity 3.5 + Tension 3.5].
Although the writing indicates that the writer thoroughly enjoyed being around people, it also indicates that after those social involvements, it was likely that she would have needed some private time to recoup the spent mental energy these occasions demanded [Word Spacing 3.5]. The writer's emotional interaction with people and her environment was probably the least preferred part of her lifestyle [World Directedness Dimension 2.4]. She had the capability of wearing several emotional hats -- she could be conservative and formal; or emotional and spontaneous; or judgmental and perfectionistic. She probably combined the critical aspects [Angularity 4.0] of her personality with the expressive spontaneity creating a much happier person [Garlands 2.5] In this mode, the critical nature would have been expressed in a supportive manner.
The writing also indicates that she had the capacity to adapt to changing goals although the change would have required considerably more effort from her [Flexibility Fluency 2.0 + Thread 2.0]. Also the more liberal, progressive, future-oriented persuasions of this writer tended to override some of her conservative tendencies [Right Margin 2.5]. To approach her with the thought of developing a friendship might be a little difficult initially. She would likely be drawn to those who had translated ideas into actions.
The writing suggested a somewhat reserved nature, [Arcades 4.0 + Narrowness 4.0 + Leftward Trend MZ 3.0 ] that is, the head rules. With this posture, there was little likelihood that anyone could easily "push her emotional button." There is a firm, even stubborn, manner apparent in the writing, too [tented "t- and i-stems"]. If her expectations were not met in a timely fashion a tongue lashing would likely be forthcoming [ feathered t-bars & terminal strokes].
The writing of Alva E. Belmont projects a compelling personality. As an analyst, I would give considerable to have been in the presence of this dynamic person. Some outstanding personality characteristics evident in the writing follow.
Notable Personality Characteristics
The Intellect Dimension, which comprises 7 different Indicators and more than 30 sub-indicators, dominated this writer's approach in life. The Intellect Dimension provides a clue of how well the writer uses her or his mental comprehension and understanding to address the daily activities and challenges. It does not necessarily relate to the writer's IQ.
This writer manifests a remarkable, innate intellectual ability which spills into the organizational structure [Organization 4.0] she applied not only for her own use but also probably for those around her. Her ability to cut through to the core of the ideas, issues, projects, and old conventions [Simplification of Form 4.0] contributed to her management expertise. Furthermore, she probably had little hesitancy about expressing her convictions in these areas [Originality 3.5].
At the time of her writing, she was probably more inclined toward practical considerations rather than matters of abstract interests [Upper Zone Height 2.0]. It is certainly possible that, at age 66, she had achieved so much that philosophic or abstract concepts held little interest for her. [Note: She was heavily involved with working to ensure passage of the 19th Amendment and with helping her daughter obtain a divorce.] Her superior intelligence would have supported the coping skills she had for dealing with life's demands. Assessing the timing appropriateness for interventions, verbal or action, was another innate skill evident in the writing of this remarkable woman.
To rein in some of the enthusiasm of which she was capable [Expressiveness 4.0], she more than likely effected a cool, sober exterior. Part of this cool exterior, no doubt, came from her sense of being directed and manipulated by outside influences. She probably was an individual who initially got all "fired up" over a concept or issue. Then there may have been a waning of enthusiasm followed by some external push before the "fire" returned. The ebb and flow of enthusiasm may have been related to the expectation levels of the issues in which she was involved at the time of the writing [Baseline/word steadiness].
For instance, if she committed to a project or issue and would have expected support which did not materialize, her commitment would carry her through, but lack of that support would have increased her tension level [Tension 4.0]. This type of experience may have had an eroding aspect on her ego [Ego Dimension 3.0]. However, with the strategist that existed within, it is unlikely that this situation would occur too frequently. In another circumstance, her enthusiasm would have sustained her as long as she was involved with the project. Her rewards probably would have been related to the goal itself rather than for personal achievements [MZ Height mode & Alignment Control].
A vibrant personality, who in many instances, may have been viewed as a nonconformist [Monotony 2.0]. Yet at times, she would draw into herself and could have manifested an ultraconservative approach [Range of MZ Height]. The latter may have been confined to treasuring of family patterns and relationships [Leftward Trend 3.0]. The conservative attitude could have been exhibited also in a reliance on "proper manners or dress." Her rational, precise thinking patterns are augmented by her willingness to "go to mat" for her beliefs [Angularity 4.0].
In this writing, there is a sense that the writer would give priority to others and to issues before considering her own needs [Repressions Dimension 3.4 & Narrowness 4.0]. This is not to say that she lacked a positive sense about herself. Quite to the contrary, she had a healthy ego strength [Ego Dimension 3.0].
She had the self-confidence that whatever she undertook would eventually turn out all right. It might not be within her time frame, but it would happen [Alignment 3.0]. Confidence exuded from this writer. It extended to the matter of her presence in the room -- it would be felt [MZH variation & first letters]. She was a commanding woman. Her capacity to dramatize would be the envy of any playwright [UZ Elaboration 3.0, Expressiveness 4.0 & UZ Dynamics 3.5]. In fact, she may have pursued a career in the arts -- she would have been a fantastic lecturer on art history [all of above + Left Trend 3.0]. Speaking and writing could have been her forte, as well. She could have and perhaps did carry "the message." With her investigative and analytical bent no subject area, once it appealed, could have escaped a thorough evaluation [Angularity 4.0]. There would have been times when she could have gotten caught up in her own feelings and her behaviors could seem to be self-centered and indecisive, even moody -- but with charm. There would have been times when her focus would have been so intense that all else would have been seemed nonexistent. [Arcades 4.0 + variation in MZHeight]
The residue of growing-up days for this writer suggests some troubled times. It is likely that the mother or mother image was perceived as the stricter, more authoritarian parent. There appears to have been a longing for or an appeal to the father or father image for warmth and affection. It could be also that this person was absent for whatever reasons from the family setting ["I" Emphasis 3.5 + Narrowness 4.0]. Also, with certain graphic patterns in the writing which suggest that her educational background may have had an European influence it could be that she studied at a special school or with special individuals, perhaps tutors, or possibly in Europe -- away from family.
As has been described above, the energy, both physical and mental, for the writer was about the same as most of us have. With each of us, we usually learn how to ration our energy so that when a little more is was called for, it is there [Drives 2.8]. At times, restlessness could overcome the writer with a flurry of activity following [LZ Length ranged to 4.0]. Or she may have diverted her energies into intellectual pursuits. More commonly, she was likely to have confined her activities to conventional work habits. Also, with the mental intensity of this writer, some may have had the impression of physical weakness which may or may not have been accurate [Sharpness 4.0].
Furthermore, the enjoyment of an elegant meal with vintage wine, fine art, the sense of touch as with fine woods or materials, experiencing a beautiful symphony -- the sensual aspects of life could have been quite meaningful to her [Pressure 3.0 + Pastosity 2.5 + MZH Range 4.5 + UZ Elaboration 3.0].
Her genuine warmth seems to relate more to things than with people. [Rightward Trend in MZ 4.5 + Garlands 2.5] She did enjoy being with people and would have likely been a most gracious hostess. Her guests would have enjoyed her charm and naturalness. The diplomacy which is apparent in the writing would match any that the most suave, the most sophisticated, of White House State dinner or receptions might have called for [Thread 2.0 + Word Spacing 3.5 + Ridigity 3.5]. However, if not pleased with an individual or situation, a more formal attitude, a stiffness, even abruptness could have been displayed. And she would have been quite alert to any indiscretions [Ridigity 3.5 + Tension 3.5].
Although the writing indicates that the writer thoroughly enjoyed being around people, it also indicates that after those social involvements, it was likely that she would have needed some private time to recoup the spent mental energy these occasions demanded [Word Spacing 3.5]. The writer's emotional interaction with people and her environment was probably the least preferred part of her lifestyle [World Directedness Dimension 2.4]. She had the capability of wearing several emotional hats -- she could be conservative and formal; or emotional and spontaneous; or judgmental and perfectionistic. She probably combined the critical aspects [Angularity 4.0] of her personality with the expressive spontaneity creating a much happier person [Garlands 2.5] In this mode, the critical nature would have been expressed in a supportive manner.
The writing also indicates that she had the capacity to adapt to changing goals although the change would have required considerably more effort from her [Flexibility Fluency 2.0 + Thread 2.0]. Also the more liberal, progressive, future-oriented persuasions of this writer tended to override some of her conservative tendencies [Right Margin 2.5]. To approach her with the thought of developing a friendship might be a little difficult initially. She would likely be drawn to those who had translated ideas into actions.
The writing suggested a somewhat reserved nature, [Arcades 4.0 + Narrowness 4.0 + Leftward Trend MZ 3.0 ] that is, the head rules. With this posture, there was little likelihood that anyone could easily "push her emotional button." There is a firm, even stubborn, manner apparent in the writing, too [tented "t- and i-stems"]. If her expectations were not met in a timely fashion a tongue lashing would likely be forthcoming [ feathered t-bars & terminal strokes].
The writing of Alva E. Belmont projects a compelling personality. As an analyst, I would give considerable to have been in the presence of this dynamic person. Some outstanding personality characteristics evident in the writing follow.
Notable Personality Characteristics
- Strong intellectual capacities
- Probably an excellent strategist in any undertaking
- Putting the achievement of goals first
- Pragmatist
- Genuinely liking people yet needing private time
- Strong sense of commitment
- Artistic inclinations
- Snappish on occasion
- Sense of family
Biography of Alva Vanderbilt Belmont
When I wrote the evaluation of the handwriting of Alva Belmont (1853-1933), I knew nothing of this extraordinary woman. I did not know she was a social scion and trend setter, a suffragist, former National Woman's Party President, an associate of Alice Paul. I did not know that Alva founded the Political Equality Association or that she marched, picketed the White House, pleaded with President Wilson, was jailed, force fed, attacked by police, and jeered in public in 1913. I did not know of the determination of Alva Vanderbilt to put the Vanderbilt name right along side if not to top the socially prominent Astor's, especially, Mrs. William B. Astor and her daughter, Caroline. A strategist par excellence. Alva Vanderbilt Belmont was one of the wealthiest women in America in the early 1900s. The book, Alva That Vanderbilt-Belmont Woman, is a fictional account tracing the life of this remarkable woman. The 90 or so photographs corroborating life and times of Alva add much to the story.
One might recognize another accomplishment of Alva as a Vanderbilt -- Marble House at Newport, Rhode Island. She and architect, Richard Morris Hunt, designed, built, and furnished this magnificent structure. Another mansion in the Vanderbilt family and one with which you may be even more familiar with is the Breakers featured in "The Great Gatsby." Alva's prominence and prestige extended to England. Daughter, Consuelo, married the Ninth Duke of Marlborough (a relative of Winston Churchill). It is reported that Winston Churchill is to have said that Alva Belmont was the only woman he was afraid of. Born January 17, 1853, in Mobile, Alabama, Alva Erskine Smith, the family moved to New York in 1861. When Alva was 13, the family moved to France and returned to New York in 1870. Alva married William Kissam Vanderbilt, April 20, 1875. Three children were born of this marriage, 2 boys with the girl, Consuelo, the middle child. Alva and William Vanderbilt divorced in 1895. Alva married Oliver H.P. Belmont January 1896 and was widowed in 1908. |
With the Belmont fortune under her management, she continued with remodeling and building efforts and focused her energies with women's rights issues. She lead a suffragist parade down 5th Avenue in New York City in 1912. In 1919, she financially backed co-workers in the suffragists movement in their final push for the Constitutional Amendment -- No. 19.
The 7-page letter share with me was dated January 5, 1919, when Alva at the age of 66 was probably living in New York and working with others to pass the 19th Amendment. At that time also, some family problems were in need of her attention as well. Author: Margaret Hayden Rector, received the Edna Davidson Franklin Golden Quill Award in Los Angeles for this work. In the summer of 1992 Rector presented 2 lecture in turn-of-the-Century costume at the Sewall-Belmont House in Washington, DC. The Sewall-Belmont House is the home of the National Woman's party -- which Alva Belmont purchased and funded many of its operations to bring about the vote for women. It is with appreciation to author, Margaret Hayden Rector, for her permission to share this material. More about Alva and the author can be seen at http://www.wic.org/misc/alva.htm -- The Women's International Center in San Diego, a nonprofit education and service organization. The Letter submitted for evaluation was a 7-page letter. One page is included as representation for the following report. The information I had prior to the report was limited by my choice. Also the evaluation was prior to the book's publication. A snippet of writing can be seen on page 303 of Alva That Vanderbilt-Belmont Woman. Author Rector, upon reading the report, said, "Right on.". Other Links to Alva Belmont: Guest Analyst: Ellen Bowers, Ed.D, Ph.D. |
