What does the term "chiaroscuro" refer to in art?

The term "chiaroscuro" specifically refers to the technique of using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and three-dimensionality in an artwork. This method enhances the visual impact of the subjects depicted, making them appear more realistic by mimicking how light naturally interacts with forms. Artists deploy chiaroscuro to guide the viewer's focus and highlight certain aspects of their compositions, often giving depth and an illusion of space.

This technique has been notably employed by many Renaissance artists, such as Caravaggio and Leonardo da Vinci, who understood that manipulating light and shadow could dramatically alter perceptions of form. The technique plays a crucial role in the visual representation of figures and objects, emphasizing contours and adding to the overall dramatic effect of a piece.