Alto-relievo or high-relief, are figures carved out of a tablet that project at least one half of cross-section from the tablet's surface. In the illustration at right, the wall is a simple re-inforcement, with no detail, but frequently the vertical element would be bigger and have detail carved into it. (Contrast bas relief.)

Historical context

All cultures and periods where large sculptures were created used this technique as one of their sculptural options. From ancient times to present, it is to be seen in "monumental sculpture". It is frequently employed as a means of strengthing the integrity of the sculpture only. Frequently some detail is included on the vertical stone.

Sculpture techniques