Visual perception utilizes vertical positioning to infer distance. Objects positioned higher in the visual field are typically perceived as being farther away than objects located lower in the visual field. For example, in a landscape painting, trees drawn higher up on the canvas will be interpreted as being further back in the scene, contributing to the illusion of depth.
This depth cue contributes significantly to our understanding of spatial relationships within the environment. Its reliance on inherent visual processing makes it a robust and readily available indicator, influencing aesthetic choices in art and design, as well as playing a crucial role in navigating and interacting with the world. This specific method of interpretation has been understood and applied, often intuitively, for centuries.