The artistic term for "light and dark"-- you italian types will recognise that. It's generally seen in renaissance art, and exhibits a strong transition between light and dark in a painting.

Chia`ro*scu"ro (?), 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.

© Webster 1913.

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