Here are some possible interpretations:
1. Focusing on the Specific Time Period:
* Modern: This era typically spans from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. It is characterized by a break from traditional forms and the embrace of new ideas and technologies.
* Postmodern: This era emerged in the latter half of the 20th century and is marked by a rejection of grand narratives, a celebration of diversity, and a focus on irony and pastiche.
2. Considering Artistic Movements:
* Specific artistic movements: There were many artistic movements before "contemporary," such as Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Romanticism, Impressionism, and so on. Each of these movements had its unique style and characteristics.
* The past: Anything that was created before the present is, in a sense, "before contemporary." This could include ancient art, medieval art, classical music, etc.
3. Looking at Time as a Continuum:
* Everything: Ultimately, contemporary art exists in a dialogue with the past. So, in a broader sense, everything that came before contributes to what we consider "contemporary" today.
To give you a more precise answer, you would need to clarify what specific field or time period you are asking about.