Triangle composition
The triangular composition describes a principle of the arrangement of picture objects on a picture surface. It is a stylistic device that is often used in painting and photography .
Especially in the art-historical epoch of the Renaissance , the triangular composition was used to depict religious content. One saw the clarity, calm and harmony embodied by the geometric shape of the triangle as an excellent symbol for the representation of the divine trinity and tried to underline the spiritual meaning of this topic. The triangular composition thus became one of the most important Christian symbols of the time.
The optical triangle in a picture has - similar to the golden ratio - a very organizing and harmonizing function. This is especially true for isosceles or equilateral triangles. That is why it often appears static and rigid. However, a dynamic effect can be achieved through oblique or diagonal lines and through the representation of a movement, for example through motion blur .
The painter Caspar David Friedrich also made use of this compositional figure. He even planned his pictures with a compass and a set square .