prominence, distinctness, or vividness due to contrast.
2.
the projection of a figure or part from the ground or plane on which it is formed, as in sculpture or similar work.
3.
a piece or work in such projection.
4.
an apparent projection of parts in a painting, drawing, etc., giving the appearance of the third dimension.
5.
Physical Geography. the differences in elevation and slope between the higher and lower parts of the land surface of a given area.
6.
Also called relief printing.Printing. any printing process, as letterpress or flexography, in which the printing ink is transferred to paper or another printed surface from areas that are higher than the rest of the block.
[Origin: 1600–10; < F relief and It rilievo; see relief1]
relief, in sculpture, three-dimensional projection from a flat background. In alto-relievo, or high relief, the protrusion is great; basso-relievo, or bas-relief, protrudes only slightly; and mezzo-relievo is intermediate between the two. Ancient Egyptians and Etruscans also used cavo relievo, intaglio, or sunken relief, in which the design is incised deeper than the background. High relief, although also used in ancient times, reached its climax in the baroque period. Bas-relief is commonly employed on coins and on medals.
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