chiaroscuro

chiaroscuro \chia`ro*scu"ro\, chiaro-oscuro \chi*a"ro-os*cu"ro\, n. [it., clear dark.] (a) the arrangement of light and dark parts in a work of art, such as a drawing or painting, whether in monochrome or in color. (b) the art or practice of so arranging the light and dark parts as to produce a harmonious effect. cf. clair-obscur.

15.8.09

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starlight and the presence of trees and the sound of the brook all entered into the dimly lit room, so that between each person and the next, and between the words they said, there was a certain space for shadows, night-wind, and silence.

ursula k. le guin, city of illusions
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