contrapposto
1
9.9
- noun
- /ˌkɒntrəˈpɒstoʊ/
- Specialized
- With mathematics as his absolute foundation, he was then able to create a contrapposto that is assertive, giving the figure the graceful S-curve that would become iconic in Greek sculpture.
- contrapposto pose
Examples
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In each case, the body is presented in a graceful contrapposto pose, with little evidence of physical suffering aside from a few discreet drops of blood around the crown of thorns, the nails in the feet, and on the cloth.
Academic text (1998) -
Kritios Boy is believed to be the first sculpted human figure to employ contrapposto, meaning "shifting of weight."
Blog text (19) -
Mars stands in elegant contrapposto; his relaxed left arm hangs casually by his side.
Academic text (2005) -
Polykleitos further enhanced the grace of the contrapposto with the harmony of "cross balance": the bent arm is diagonally opposite the straight leg, while the straight arm is diagonal to the bent leg.
Blog text (19) -
The statue was carefully crafted to display a dynamic contrapposto, emphasizing the shift of weight from one leg to the other.
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In classical sculpture, the artist often employs a contrapposto stance to convey a sense of movement and life.
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The graceful contrapposto in the statue draws the viewer's eye along the figure's curves and angles.
Synonyms
95
4.1
A particular way of standing or sitting for a picture
Surface Forms
Etymology
Contrapposto comes from the Italian parts contra- ('against') and posto ('placed'), meaning 'placed against'. In art, a contrapposto is a pose with most weight on one leg so the hips and shoulders tilt in opposite directions, which makes the figure look relaxed and full of movement.