tenebrism

(noun)

A style of painting using very pronounced light contrast (chiaroscuro), with darkness a dominating feature of the image

Related Terms

Examples of tenebrism in the following topics:

  • Chiaroscuro

    • Caravaggio was especially crucial in developing the style of tenebrism, where dramatic chiaroscuro becomes a dominant stylistic device.
    • This exaggeration of the shading of chiaroscuro is known as 'tenebrism'.
    • Tenebrism was practiced especially in Spain and the Spanish-ruled Kingdom of Naples.
    • This painting exemplifies the exaggerated chiaroscuro or tenebrism that Peter Paul Rubens was known for.
    • Caravaggio was crucial in developing the style of tenebrism, the exaggeration of the shading of chiaroscuro

  • Italian Painting in the Baroque Period

    • He used tenebrism and stark contrasts between partially lit figures and dark backgrounds to dramatize the effect.
    • The Calling of Saint Matthew shows Caravaggio's use of tenebrism and stark contrasts between partially lit figures and dark backgrounds to dramatize the effect.