Grisaille

/ɡrɪˈzaɪl/ noun

A painting technique using only shades of gray or another neutral color to create a monochromatic work. Often used to imitate sculpture or as an underpainting for more complex color work.

From French 'gris' meaning 'gray,' with the suffix '-aille' indicating a technique or process. The method was particularly popular in medieval and Renaissance art for creating the illusion of carved stone reliefs.

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