Perspective. The technique used to project an illusion of a three-dimensional (real) world on a two-dimensional surface, such as a piece of paper or canvas. It helps to create a sense of depth, or receding space.

"The Flagellation" (circa 1469) Piero della Francesca

Related Terms: Aerial perspective, Foreshortening, Horizon line, Picture plane, Vanishing point, View point.