chiarooscuro

/kiˌɑroʊskjʊˈroʊ, kiˌɑrwɑˈskʊroʊ/

Definitions

1. noun

an artistic or photographic technique that uses strong contrasts of light and dark to create a three-dimensional effect, often used to convey emotion or to highlight specific areas of a scene

“The artist’s use of chiarooscuro in the painting created a dramatic and haunting atmosphere.”

2. noun

a style of painting that uses strong contrasts of light and dark to create a three-dimensional effect

“The Renaissance master’s use of chiarooscuro in his paintings was highly influential in the art world.”

3. adjective

describing a style of art or photography that uses strong contrasts of light and dark to create a three-dimensional effect

“The chiarooscuro lighting in the film added depth and drama to the scene.”

Synonyms

  • high-contrast
  • tenebrism

Antonyms

  • low-contrast
  • monochromatic