"The little may contrast with the great, in painting, but cannot be said to be contrary to it. Oppositions of colors contrast; but there are also colors contrary to each other, that is, which produce an ill effect because they shock the eye when brought very near it"

This quote by Voltaire is referring to making use of color in painting. He is stating that although the little may contrast with the terrific in painting, it can not be stated to be contrary to it. He is making a difference between oppositions of colors and colors that are contrary to each other. Oppositions of colors contrast, implying they create a visual result that is pleasing to the eye. Nevertheless, there are also colors that contrast each other, meaning they produce an ill effect when brought extremely near the eye. This is due to the fact that they surprise the eye and can be unpleasant to take a look at. Voltaire is stressing the value of using colors that are complementary to each other in order to produce a pleasing visual effect. He is likewise warning against using colors that are too contrasting, as this can be disconcerting to the eye.