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chiaroscuro

noun

/kɪˈɑːrəsˈkʊərəʊ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of chiaroscuro

The technique of creating contrast between light and shadow in a painting or drawing.
"The painting's chiaroscuro adds depth and dimension to the figures."

Detailed meaning of chiaroscuro

The word chiaroscuro comes from the Italian words "chiaro" meaning light, and "oscuro" meaning dark. This technique was used extensively during the Renaissance period by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Caravaggio to create a sense of depth and drama in their paintings. By skillfully manipulating the use of light and shadow, chiaroscuro can create a sense of volume and three-dimensionality in a two-dimensional image. Today, chiaroscuro is still used by artists in various mediums, including photography, film, and graphic design, to create a sense of depth and visual interest.

Example sentences containing chiaroscuro

1. The artist used chiaroscuro to create a dramatic interplay of light and shadow in the portrait.
2. The chiaroscuro technique in the painting gave depth and dimension to the scene.
3. The film director masterfully employed chiaroscuro to evoke a sense of mystery and suspense.
4. The photographer's use of chiaroscuro added a sense of moodiness to the black and white images.
5. The play of chiaroscuro in the old castle's interior created an eerie and haunting atmosphere.
6. The artist's skillful handling of chiaroscuro brought out the tactile quality of the still-life objects.

History and etymology of chiaroscuro

The noun 'chiaroscuro' has its etymological origins in the Italian language. It is a compound word consisting of 'chiaro,' meaning 'light,' and 'scuro,' meaning 'dark' or 'obscure.' Together, 'chiaroscuro' signifies the technique of creating contrast between light and shadow in a painting or drawing to achieve a sense of depth, volume, and three-dimensionality. The term was widely employed during the Renaissance and Baroque periods to describe the skillful use of light and shadow by artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Caravaggio to render realism and drama in their works. 'Chiaroscuro' has since become a fundamental concept in art, offering a means to evoke mood, atmosphere, and dimension through the manipulation of light and shade.

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Further usage examples of chiaroscuro

1. The Renaissance painters were known for their mastery of chiaroscuro, creating lifelike figures on the canvas.
2. The art gallery featured a collection of sketches that showcased the artist's exploration of chiaroscuro.
3. The use of chiaroscuro in the movie's cinematography emphasized the characters' emotional states.
4. The graphic novel artist employed chiaroscuro to convey the gritty and atmospheric setting.
5. The play of chiaroscuro in the landscape painting depicted the fleeting effects of sunlight.
6. The textbook explained the history and techniques of chiaroscuro in various art forms.
7. The musician's composition played with musical chiaroscuro, transitioning between light and dark tones.
8. The photographer's series focused on urban scenes with strong chiaroscuro contrasts.
9. The artist's charcoal drawings displayed his proficiency in creating rich chiaroscuro effects.
10. The filmmaker's use of chiaroscuro enhanced the psychological tension of the horror movie.
11. The art class studied the works of Caravaggio to understand his mastery of chiaroscuro.
12. The novel's descriptive passages painted chiaroscuro images of the bustling city streets.
13. The chiaroscuro painting technique became prominent during the Baroque period.
14. The illustrator's use of chiaroscuro in the graphic novel added a layer of depth to the characters' emotions.