basso rilievo

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Word: Basso Rilievo

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: "Basso rilievo" is an Italian term that describes a type of sculpture where the figures or shapes stick out only a little from the background. It means that the figures are not deeply carved into the material; instead, they are more like a flat design that has been slightly raised.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "basso rilievo" when talking about art, especially sculpture. It is often used in discussions about different styles and techniques of sculpting.

Example:

• "The artist created a beautiful basso rilievo on the wall, where the animals appeared to be gently rising from the surface."

Advanced Usage:

• In art history, "basso rilievo" is often contrasted with "alto rilievo," where the figures are more prominently raised and can be seen from multiple angles. Understanding these terms can help you discuss the differences in sculptural techniques.

Word Variants:

• Basso rilievo: This is the original term in Italian.
• Bas-relief: This is the English equivalent of "basso rilievo" and is more commonly used in English discussions about sculpture.

Different Meanings:

• While "basso rilievo" specifically refers to a style of sculpture, "bas-relief" can sometimes be used more generally to describe any low-relief sculpture.

Synonyms:

• Bas-relief
• Low relief

Related Terms:

• Alto rilievo: Refers to a high relief sculpture where forms are significantly raised from the background.
• Relief sculpture: A broad term that includes both basso rilievo and alto rilievo.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "basso rilievo," but you might encounter phrases like "to bring to life" in the context of discussing how a sculptor can make a basso rilievo appear more dynamic or lively.

Academic

Noun

1. a sculptural relief in which forms extend only slightly from the background; no figures are undercut

Synonyms

• bas relief
• low relief
• basso relievo