Lambertian reflectance refers to a surface's ability to reflect light uniformly in all directions, regardless of the angle of incidence. This type of reflectance is named after the German mathematician Johann Heinrich Lambert, who described it in the 18th century. A surface exhibiting Lambertian reflectance appears equally bright from any viewing angle, making it ideal for modeling diffuse surfaces in computer graphics and optical applications. In practical terms, Lambertian reflectance is often observed in materials like matte paint or unpolished surfaces. These materials scatter incoming light, resulting in a soft, non-glossy appearance. This property is essential in various fields, including photography, lighting design, and remote sensing.