Bas-relief is a sculptural technique in which the figures or designs are only slightly raised above the background surface. This form of sculpture creates a subtle depth, allowing for detailed and intricate designs without the pronounced projection of high relief sculpture. Bas-relief is commonly used in architectural decoration, where it adds texture and visual interest to surfaces such as walls, panels, and facades.
The use of bas-relief dates back to ancient civilizations, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. The Egyptians used bas-relief extensively in their temples and tombs to depict deities, pharaohs, and everyday life. The Greeks refined the technique, using it to decorate friezes and metopes on their temples, such as the Parthenon. The Romans continued this tradition, incorporating bas-relief into their monumental structures like triumphal arches and public buildings.
Bas-relief is used in various architectural contexts to enhance the visual appeal and convey artistic or historical narratives. It can be found on the facades of buildings, interior walls, and in decorative panels.
The term "bas-relief" comes from the French "bas" meaning "low" and "relief" meaning "raised work."
EXAMPLES IN CHICAGO:
- The Chicago Board of Trade Building: Completed in 1930 and designed by Holabird & Root, this iconic Art Deco skyscraper features bas-relief sculptures on its facade. The bas-reliefs along the building’s entrance depict agricultural themes, reflecting the building's historical connection to commodity trading.
- The Marquette Building: This historic skyscraper, completed in 1895 and designed by Holabird & Roche, features bas-relief panels above its entrance. These panels, created by sculptor Hermon Atkins MacNeil, depict scenes from the life of the French explorer Jacques Marquette, after whom the building is named. The detailed bas-reliefs tell the story of Marquette's exploration and interactions with Indigenous People.
- The Art Institute of Chicago: The main entrance of the Art Institute of Chicago, completed in 1893 and designed by the architectural firm Shepley, Rutan, and Coolidge, features impressive bas-relief panels. The building’s facade includes bas-relief sculptures depicting allegorical figures representing the arts and learning, reflecting the museum’s mission to promote art and education.
