Figure and prefigurement

FIGURE is a word that has many meanings and nuances in the Ukrainian language. In Galicia, in particular, the primary concept for the "figure" is icon. And this is largely a sacred concept. But now we are talking about figure as the basis of such a concept as visual (figurative) art. That is, the art of working with figures. Creating some kind of action with figures. 

PREFIGUREMENT is the original model, basis, or real thing that serves as a source for creating a new figure, work, or phenomenon. It can be a model of someone or something. The foundation from which something new arises, such as a prototype of a character in literature or painting. An honest, clearly referenced quotation from the original source. Like the obverse and reverse of a coin. Like the Old and New Testaments, ultimately.