\Chia`ro*scu"ro\, Chiaro-oscuro \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}.