Foreshortening

Definition

Foreshortening is a technique used in art to create the illusion of depth by depicting an object or figure at an angle, making it appear shorter than its actual size. It involves distorting the proportions of the subject to convey perspective.

Related terms

Chiaroscuro: Chiaroscuro refers to the use of light and dark contrasts in artwork to create depth and volume. It involves shading techniques that enhance three-dimensionality.

Perspective: Perspective is a method used in art to represent three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional surface. It creates an illusion of depth and distance by using vanishing points and converging lines.

Trompe-l'oeil: Trompe-l'oeil is an artistic technique that creates realistic imagery, often fooling the viewer into thinking they are seeing real objects rather than painted ones. It plays with optical illusions and tricks our perception.