Vanishing point

How it is used

Basic to linear perspective: one-point, two-point and three-point perspective use one, two or three vanishing points. Art historians note where the vanishing point is placed, because it can lead the viewer's eye to the main figure.

Example sentences

1. In Leonardo's Last Supper, the lines of the ceiling lead to a vanishing point at Christ's head.

2. Draw the horizon line first, then mark the vanishing point on it.

Common collocations

• single vanishing point
• horizon line
• lines converge on the vanishing point
• one-point perspective

Related terms

• perspectiveA method of showing depth and distance on a flat surface, for example by making parallel lines meet at a point and painting distant things smaller.
• focal pointThe part of an artwork that draws the viewer's eye first and holds attention, often created through contrast, light, colour or the direction of lines.
• foreshorteningA drawing technique that makes an object or a part of the body pointing towards the viewer look shorter, so that it seems to come out of the picture in depth.
• RenaissanceThe period in European history, roughly from the fourteenth to the sixteenth century, when art and learning were renewed by a strong interest in ancient Greek and Roman culture.

More terms: Visual Elements & Composition

• composition
• palette
• foreground
• contrast
• texture
• chiaroscuro
• proportion