Image classification apparatus

An image classification apparatus that classifies images based upon image data, comprising:

• a multiresolution representation unit that sequentially generates high-frequency band images assuming a plurality of resolution levels by filtering an original image;
• an image synthesis unit that synthesizes a single high-frequency band image by sequentially integrating the high-frequency band images starting with a high-frequency band image at a lowest resolution;
• and
• an image classification unit that classifies an impression that human viewers receive from the original image into an adjective based upon the synthesized high-frequency band image.

An image classification apparatus that classifies images based upon image data, comprising:

• a histogram generation unit that generates a histogram of image signals having projected therein specific characteristics of an original image;
• a feature calculation unit that calculates a feature used to distinguish a given single type of pattern characteristics among patterns of the histogram having been generated;
• and
• an image classification unit that classifies an impression that human viewers receive from the original image into an adjective based upon the feature, wherein:
• the feature calculation unit calculates at least two different types of indices as features for distinguishing the single type of pattern characteristics.