Hierarchy of scale

Definition

Hierarchy of scale refers to the artistic technique where figures or objects are depicted in sizes relative to their importance or significance within a composition. This technique is often used to emphasize certain elements and create visual hierarchy.

Related terms

Foreshortening:

An artistic technique used to create an illusion of depth by depicting objects closer to the viewer as shorter than they actually are.

Proportion: Refers to how different parts or elements relate in size or scale within an artwork.

Hierarchical proportion: Similar to hierarchy of scale, this term specifically refers to using size differences between figures based on their importance or social status.