Terebroso and Chiaroscuro

Tenebroso is an Italian word, literally meaning dark and gloomy. 

Both tenebroso and its English equivalent, tenebrism, refer to a

Style of painting characterized by high contrast between light and shade – emphasis placed on chiaroscuro to achieve dark dramatic effects.

Frequently the main subjects of terebrist pictures are illuminated by a single source of light, as if a spotlight shone upon them, leaving other areas in darkness.

Also called “dark manner.” or “night paintings”.

Artists:

  Caravaggio

  Michelangelo

  Georges De La Tour

  Rembrandt