n. pl. chi·a·ro·scu·ros 1. The technique of using light and shade in pictorial representation. 2. The arrangement of light and dark elements in a pictorial work of art. 3. a. A woodcut technique in which several blocks are used to print different shades of a color. b. A woodcut print made by this technique. In all senses also called claire-obscure. [Italian : chiaro, bright, light (from Latin clārus, clear; see kelə-2 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots) + oscuro, dark (from Latin obscūrus; see (s)keu- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots).] chi·a′ro·scurist n. |
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