Graphics

Graphics Object Hierarchy

Handle Graphics objects are the basic drawing elements used by MATLAB to display data and to create graphical user interfaces (GUIs). Each instance of an object is associated with a unique identifier called a handle. Using this handle, you can manipulate the characteristics (called object properties) of an existing graphics object. You can also specify values for properties when you create a graphics object.

These objects are organized into a tree-structured hierarchy.

The hierarchical nature of Handle Graphics is based on the interdependencies of the various graphics objects. For example, to draw a line object, MATLAB needs an axes object to orient and provide a frame of reference to the line. The axes, in turn, needs a figure window to display the line.

Handle Graphics Objects

Types of Graphics Objects