CONTRAST, in painting and sculpture, expresses an opposition or difference of position, attitude, &c. of two or more figures, contrived to make variety in a painting, &c. as where, in a groupe of three figures, one is shewn before, another behind, and another side-ways, they are said to be in contrast.
The contrast is not only to be observed in the position of several figures, but also in that of the several members.
Contrast members of the same figure: thus, if the right arm advance farthest, the right leg is to be hindmost; if the eye be directed one way, the arm to go the contrary way, &c. The contrast must be pursued even in the drapery.