Linear perspective is an artistic technique used to create the illusion of depth and space on a flat surface. It involves drawing lines that converge at a single point, known as the vanishing point, on the horizon line. This method helps artists depict objects as they appear smaller as they recede into the distance, mimicking how the human eye perceives the world. This technique was developed during the Renaissance and is often associated with artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Filippo Brunelleschi. By using linear perspective, artists can create more realistic and three-dimensional scenes, enhancing the viewer's experience of the artwork.