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.
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