In linear perspective, the primary lines used are orthogonal lines that converge at a vanishing point on the horizon line. Lines that are not used include vertical lines, which maintain their direction regardless of perspective, and horizontal lines that run parallel to the horizon without converging. Additionally, any lines that do not relate to the spatial arrangement or do not lead towards the vanishing point are also excluded from creating effective linear perspective.
Linear perspective revolutionized painting by introducing a mathematical system that allowed artists to create the illusion of depth and three-dimensional space on a flat surface. By establishing a horizon line and vanishing points, artists could depict objects and figures in a more realistic manner, leading to greater spatial accuracy and coherence in compositions. This technique, popularized during the Renaissance, transformed the representation of space in art, enabling more dynamic and immersive scenes that reflected the complexities of the real world. Ultimately, linear perspective contributed to a shift towards realism and a deeper exploration of human experience in visual art.
perspective, aerial perspective and linear perspective.
Three-dimensional space can be represented on a flat surface through perspective techniques, such as linear perspective and atmospheric perspective. Linear perspective involves creating a vanishing point on the horizon line where parallel lines converge, giving the illusion of depth. Atmospheric perspective uses color and clarity to simulate distance, with objects becoming lighter and less detailed as they recede into the background. Together, these methods allow artists to create a convincing depiction of three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional plane.
The 15th century in Italy
above the objects in a painting.
above the objects in a painting.
above the objects in a painting.
above the objects in a painting.
Establish a horizon line and a vanishing point
linear perspective
Many paintings offer an illustration of both atmospheric and linear perspective, I would recommend Looking at Claude Lorrain's 1648 oil painting "Embarkation of the Queen of Sheba". Linear perspective can be seen by the straight lines which angle in towards the sun on the horizon. Atmospheric perspective can be seen by the way the closest building is detailed and the farther buildings have less detail.
linear perspective
It is believed that the first painter to use linear perspective was Polygonus, in 5th Century BC Greece. We cannot be certain because Greeks painted only on wooden boards, none of which survive. The first modern painting to depict linear perspective was Masaccio's "The Tribute Money" which was done in Florence, Italy in the early 15th Century. It depicts a new testament story.
linear perspective :)
An early attempt at perspective (apex)
linear perspective