aerial perspective

American  

noun

1. a technique of rendering depth or distance in painting by modifying the tone or hue and distinctness of objects perceived as receding from the picture plane, especially by reducing distinctive local colors and contrasts of light and dark to a uniform light bluish-gray color.

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aerial perspective British  

noun

1. Also called: atmospheric perspective.  a means of indicating relative distance in terms of a gradation of clarity, tone, and colour, esp blue

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Etymology

Origin of aerial perspective

First recorded in 1725–35

Example Sentences

His works, known for their vivid explosions of color, their fluid, coiling lines and their aerial perspective, have sometimes invited comparisons to Australian Aboriginal art.

From New York Times • May 5, 2023

We actually say, “We have this air quality, and we have a sun out here,” and it creates the whole sky, all the aerial perspective, all the god-rays.

From The Verge • Dec. 21, 2018

“That aerial perspective may help us spot that person quicker than officers on the ground.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2018

The aerial perspective this escape offers doesn’t immediately evaporate either.

From Slate • May 14, 2018

This is not offered as a substitute for aerial perspective as the primary cause of the illusion but it appears to the author that it is a cause which must be taken into account.

From Visual Illusions Their Causes, Characteristics and Applications by Luckiesh, Matthew