AbstractThree experiments were reported. (1.i) Using a Maltese cross figure reversal rates were found to slow with continuous inspection. (1.ii) Using Rubin's figure reversal rates did not change significantly. These findings are contrary to Kohler's. (2) In a test of the effect of rotating the Maltese cross figure through 45° during an intervening five‐minute satiation period using the alternate eye it was found that this eliminated the slowing. The findings from Experiment 1 (i) and Experiment 2 were consistent, showing that the use of the alternate eye had no discernible effect. Slowing occurred in both cases, provided that the figure was not rotated. (3) In a test of the permanent satiation hypothesis figural after‐effects were found to be greater in the evening than in the morning. This appears to be contrary to the hypothesis of Kohler and Wal