Foreshortening

Foreshortening refers to the visual effect or optical illusion that an object or distance is shorter than it actually is because it is angled toward the viewer.

Related Topics:
Visual effect - Optical illusion - Object - Distance - Angle

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Foreshortening is an important element in art where visual perspective is being depicted.

Related Topics:
Art - Visual - Perspective

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Donatello's St. Mark, created for the Orsanmichele between 1411 and 1413. In order to create a sculpture that looked to be in proportion when viewed from the street below, Donatello had to employ foreshortening. For this reason, the sculpture might look out of proportion if seen at eye-level. When seen from below, however, it appears to be in perfect proportion. According to Vasari, the sculpture was originally rejected when seen on the ground. Donatello promised that he could make the work please his patrons if only he were allowed to place it in the niche of the Orsanmichele, which was above ground level, and refine it further.

Related Topics:
Donatello - Orsanmichele - Vasari - Patron

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According to Vasari's story, Donatello put the sculpture in place, covered it with cloth for fifteen days, and then, without working on it further, revealed it to the patrons. They were completely satisfied once they saw the sculpture in place in its niche.

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For a mathematical analysis please see projections.

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