Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tenebrism

noun
/ˈtɛnəˌbrɪzəm/
Definition
A style of painting that emphasizes the dramatic use of light and shadow.
Examples
  • Caravaggio is often credited with the use of tenebrism in his paintings, highlighting the emotional intensity of his subjects.
  • The play employed tenebrism in its staging, using shadows to enhance the tension in key scenes.
Meaning
Tenebrism refers to a technique in art and literature that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to convey mood and focus, often creating a sense of drama.
Synonyms
  • Chiaroscuro
  • Shadow play