Question

Decribe the contrapposto pose

Answer 1

Contrapposto is a sculptural pose where the figure bears weight on one leg, leading to a naturalistic stance with a shift in hips, chest, and shoulders, creating a sense of motion and life-likeness. It emerged during the Early Classical Greek period and became highly influential, symbolizing realism and humanism in art.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term contrapposto describes a pose in sculpture where the figure is positioned such that the weight is borne on one leg, leading to a naturalistic and more dynamic stance. This position initiates a shift in the figure's hips, chest, and shoulders, which contributes to a more dramatic and life-like appearance than the stiff, frontal poses that preceded this style. Examples of contrapposto can be seen in classical sculptures such as the 'Kritios Boy' and the 'Diadumenos', which show an advanced understanding of human anatomy and movement. In these sculptures, the pose often results in an 'S' curve down the central axis of the figure, creating a sense of balance and motion through the tension and relaxation of opposing limbs.

Answer 2

It is used in the visual arts to describe a human figure standing with most of its weight on one foot so that its shoulders and arms twist off-axis from the hips and legs. This gives the figure a more dynamic, or alternatively relaxed appearance. It can also be used to refer to multiple figures which are in counter-pose (or opposite pose) to one another. It can further encompass the tension as a figure changes from resting on a given leg to walking or running upon it