linear perspective

American  

noun

1. a mathematical system for representing three-dimensional objects and space on a two-dimensional surface by means of intersecting lines that are drawn vertically and horizontally and that radiate from one point one-point perspective, two points two-point perspective, or several points on a horizon line as perceived by a viewer imagined in an arbitrarily fixed position.

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linear perspective British  

noun

1. the branch of perspective in which the apparent size and shape of objects and their position with respect to foreground and background are established by actual or suggested lines converging on the horizon

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Etymology

Origin of linear perspective

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Here, Brunelleschi was unquestionably influenced by a medieval Arab thinker, Ibn al-Haytham, whose Book of Optics laid out theories of light and sight perception that described linear perspective.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2020

The artist, Lorenzo Monaco, painted during the Renaissance period, but the work was created before linear perspective had replaced the “two-dimensional” style of Gothic painting.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2020

Technically speaking, linear perspective is nothing more than an optical illusion, but it is rightfully considered one of the most transformative innovations of the Renaissance.

From New York Times • Nov. 3, 2016

He passed his knowledge to his friend Donatello, who imported linear perspective in low-relief sculpture.

From Scientific American • Aug. 17, 2011

The most ancient painters seem to have known little of either; and linear perspective was established as science before the aërial, as drawing and composition preceded colouring.

From Field's Chromatography or Treatise on Colours and Pigments as Used by Artists by Salter, Thomas