The Dorsal Figure in the Stavelot Bible

Representations of the human figure seen in the backward view are rare in primitive art and in the art of the preGreek civilizations generally. The reasons for this are both positive and negative. The advantages of adhering to the principle of frontality (and even of expanding or widening out the areas normally revealed in the front view) have been set forth in Emmanuel Lowy's classic work, The Rendering of Nature in Early Greek Art.' For most types of scenes the front view best conveys the essential information we require about human attitudes. On the other hand, the dorsal view ought to be avoided because it suggests either vulnerability (to one's enemy) or disrespect (to one's