Intro to Art History Vocab

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Contrapposto

A pose in sculpture and painting where the weight is shifted onto one leg, creating a sense of dynamism and a more relaxed appearance.

Foreshortening

A technique used in art to create the illusion of an object receding strongly into the background. Made by making parts of it appear shorter than they actually are.

Chiaroscuro

A technique in visual arts that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and three-dimensionality in objects.

One-point linear

A perspective technique used in art that features a single vanishing point on the horizon line, creating the illusion of depth and space. This guides the viewer’s eyes toward the focal point.

Perspective

A technique that represents three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional plane. Typically including a vanishing point where parallel lines converge, allowing the artist to show distance a scale.

Atmospheric perspective

A technique that enhances the sense of depth in a scene by making distant objects appear lighter and less detailed than those that are closer.

Classical orders

Three main styles of ancient greek architecture, characterized by distinct column designs.

Doric

Characterized by sturdy columns, simple capitals, and lack of elaborate ornamentation.

Ionic

Characterized by slender, fluted columns with scroll-like ornaments on the capitals.

Corinthian

Characterized by being a highly ornate style with slender, fluted columns and elaborate capitals adorned with leaves and scrolls.

Naturalism

An artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th century that emphasized a realistic and detailed portrayal of subjects. It was meant to depict everyday life without idealization, often focusing on the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior.

Realism

Prominent in the mid-19th century, this movement highlighted subjects painted naturally.

Abstraction

A movement that emphasized color, line, and shape over realistic representation. It often attempts to convey emotions or ideas rather than depict objects as they appear in reality.

Idealization

A technique where the artist enhances or simplifies forms, often to achieve beauty or perfection. This approach creates an unrealistic portrayal of subjects to convey an idea or concept.