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Chiaroscuro

chiaroscuro; strong light-dark contrast in painting

noun kia-ro-SKOO-ro Rare

Origin: from Italian chiaro (light) and scuro (dark)

Usage Note

Chiaroscuro describes the dramatic use of light and deep shadow to model form, associated with Caravaggio and Rembrandt. Neutral noun (das Chiaroscuro); also written Helldunkel in German.

Examples

"Das Chiaroscuro in Rembrandts Selbstporträts erzeugt eine intensive psychologische Tiefe."

Natural Translation

The chiaroscuro in Rembrandt's self-portraits creates an intense psychological depth.

Literal Translation

The chiaroscuro in Rembrandt's self-portraits creates an intense psychological depth.

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