The development and progression of art is not necessarily linear and doesn't always move towards more realism and elegance. Different cultures and periods value different aesthetics, and the style of art often reflects the beliefs, values, and technological capabilities of a society at a particular time.

During the Middle Ages in Europe, for example, art was primarily intended to serve religious purposes. Artists were less concerned with creating lifelike representations and more focused on conveying religious messages and symbolism. Consequently, perspective and proportions were often distorted to highlight religious figures or narratives. This is why you'll find that the size of the figures often indicates their spiritual or societal importance, rather than their actual physical size.

The art of ancient Egypt, on the other hand, followed strict conventions that reflected their religious beliefs and hierarchical society. The torsos are depicted from the front, while heads, legs, and feet are shown in profile. This rigid style created a sense of order and continuity, which was important in a culture that valued tradition and stability. The detailed and proportional art of ancient Egypt also resulted from the society's advanced understanding of mathematics and geometry.

In contrast, prehistoric cave paintings, like those at Lascaux, had a different purpose altogether. They were not meant for public display but were instead part of sacred rituals. The animals were depicted with vitality and movement because these were crucial qualities that the people hoped to acquire through the act of painting.

The perceived "elegance" and "realism" in art is largely subjective and depends on cultural and historical context. Each era and culture had its own conventions and purposes for art. Changes in these conventions were often driven by shifts in societal values, technological advancements, and cultural exchange.
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