low relief

American  

noun

1. bas-relief.

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low relief British  

noun

1. another term for bas-relief

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Etymology

Origin of low relief

First recorded in 1705–15

Compare meaning

How does low-relief compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• high relief vs. low relief

Example Sentences

Marble, intricate incised bronze panels and a gilt ceiling with low relief abstract patterns share a consistent set of motifs suggestive of Northwest Indian, Mayan and Chinese cultures.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 8, 2023

It shows in low relief Emperor Constantine riding in his chariot and trampling enemies, all while being crowned with a laurel wreath by a Winged Victory swooping in overhead.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 6, 2021

Heavy wooden doors lead from the deep front veranda into the pink living room, a pair of giant prawns carved in low relief on their burled surface: the house that fish built.

From Slate • Sep. 19, 2016

There is further metalwork, this time brass and bronze vessels with Koranic or poetic inscriptions in low relief.

From New York Times • Apr. 23, 2015

But once you passed through the Colonial doorways, with only an occasional fan window or low relief pillar to suggest that a certain muted adornment was permissible, you entered an extravaganza of Pompadour splendor.

From "A Separate Peace" by John Knowles