bas-relief
UK[ˌbæs rɪˈliːf]US[ˌbɑː rɪˈliːf]
n
A kind of sculpture in which the figures or designs are raised only slightly from a flat background.
n
A work of art made in this style.
Morpheme Breakdown
bas
relief
bas
low
relief
raised work
Etymology
The term 'bas-relief' is a direct loan from the French phrase 'bas-relief', which itself was borrowed from the Italian 'basso-rilievo', literally meaning 'low-raised-work'. It entered English in the 17th century as a specialized term in art and architecture. The logic of the word perfectly describes the technique: 'bas' (low) modifies 'relief' (a sculpted form raised from a surface), specifying that the projection is shallow or slight. This distinguishes it from 'alto-relievo' (high relief), where figures are more prominently raised.
Analysis
Structure: bas (low) + relief (raised work)
bas: From Italian 'basso', meaning 'low'. In this compound, it indicates a low degree of projection.
relief: From Italian 'rilievo', meaning 'raised work' or 'projection', referring to the sculptural technique.
Examples
The frieze on the ancient temple was decorated with intricate bas-relief depicting a historical procession.
He specialized in the delicate art of bas-relief, carving scenes that seemed to float just above the stone.
The coin featured a bas-relief portrait of the nation's first president.