Camaieu

/ˌkæməˈjuː/ noun

Definition

A painting or design executed in different shades of a single color; monochromatic artwork.

Etymology

From French camaïeu, likely from Italian cammei (cameos). The technique and term were particularly popular in 17th-18th century European art.

Kelly Says

Camaieu paintings were the Instagram 'filter aesthetic' of Renaissance Europe—artists would create stunning whole paintings in just shades of brown or blue to show off their skill with tone and shadow alone.

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