n. Light and shade; specifically, the general distribution of light and shade in a picture, whether painted, drawn, or engravedā that is, the combined effect of all its lights, shadows, and reflections. Strictly speaking, however, every object on which light strikes has its own chiaroscuro.n. A drawing in black and white.n. A method of printing engravings from several blocks representing lighter and darker shades, used especially in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries; also, an engraving so printed.Of or pertaining to light and shade in painting, drawing, or engraving.Also clair-obscure, clare-obscure.n. A style of painting on enameled pottery practised by the Italian potters.