Contrapposto is a term that is commonly used in the visual arts to describe the way that the human figure is depicted when putting most of its weight on one foot, creating the impression of movement. Even though the phrase is the Italian translation for the word ‘counterpoise’, the technique has been used since the 5th century BC in Ancient Greece.

The style was further developed throughout the Hellenistic and Imperial Roman periods; although there is not a lot of evidence of its use during the middle ages, the technique was eventually revived during the Renaissance period. One of the most famous statues in art history and examples of contrapposto is Michelangelo’s statue of David. The statue shows the biblical character in a different way to usual; most artists show David in a way that would celebrate his victory over the Goliath, although this portrayal of him gives the impression that he is tense and ready for battle after making the decision to battle the giant.