Leonardo da Vinci led the way with his revolutionary ideas. His insight into other aspects of life and work led him towards levels of influence within other areas of study outside of the art world. Everything he knew about anatomy, lighting, history and psychology went into his masterworks. Chiaroscuro was never even considered as a means to portray light, shadow, and depth until da Vinci discovered and mastered it.
Da Vinci
Leonardo Da Vinci is credited with inventing Chiaroscuro in Italy during the 1470s.
Influence
Many artists during and after the Italian Renaissance, including Caravaggio and Michelangelo, utilized this technique.
Mona Lisa
Leonardo Da Vinci utilized chiaroscuro in the Mona Lisa to create the illusion of depth.
Light and Shadow
Chiaroscuro simply refers to light and shade used in a work of art.
Revolutionary Idea
Prior to the invention of Chiaroscuro, artists had little or no perception of light and shadow.
Da Vinci's Impact
Da Vinci revolutionized the art world with his invention of Chiaroscuro and his definition of the ideal human form.