Term
Contrapposto
Meaning
Contrapposto is a standing pose in which the weight rests mostly on one leg, so the shoulders and hips tilt in opposite directions. The term comes from Italian and means counterpoise, and the stance is familiar from classical sculpture. It matters to figure artists because it gives a standing figure balance and a relaxed look instead of a symmetrical, stiff one. A quick check is to draw one short line across the shoulders and another across the hips and compare their angles. See also: Line of action, Pelvis, Ribcage and the guide "Gesture Drawing for Beginners: Capturing Movement Before Detail".