contrapposto Definition
- 1a pose in sculpture and painting where the figure stands with most of its weight on one foot, creating an S-shaped curve through the body
- 2a method of representing the human body in which the forms are organized on a varying or curving axis to provide an asymmetrical balance to the figure
Using contrapposto: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "contrapposto" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The statue of David by Michelangelo is a famous example of contrapposto.
Example
The artist used contrapposto to create a sense of movement and balance in the painting.
Phrases with contrapposto
a specific type of contrapposto pose that was popularized in ancient Greek and Roman art, characterized by a shift of weight onto one leg and a corresponding shift in the hips and shoulders
Example
The classical contrapposto pose can be seen in many ancient Greek statues.
a variation of the contrapposto pose that emphasizes movement and energy, often used in Baroque art
Example
The dynamic contrapposto pose can be seen in many sculptures from the Baroque period.
the sense of balance and harmony created by the contrapposto pose
Example
The artist used contrapposto balance to create a feeling of stability and grace in the sculpture.
Origins of contrapposto
from Italian 'contrapposto', meaning 'counterpose'
Summary: contrapposto in Brief
Contrapposto [kon-truh-poh-stoh] is a pose used in sculpture and painting where the figure stands with most of its weight on one foot, creating an S-shaped curve through the body. It is a method of representing the human body in which the forms are organized on a varying or curving axis to provide an asymmetrical balance to the figure. Contrapposto can be seen in classical and dynamic variations, and creates a sense of balance and harmony known as contrapposto balance.
