Chiaroscuro is an artistic technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth in two-dimensional works. This method helps to highlight certain features of a subject, making it appear more three-dimensional. It is commonly used in painting, drawing, and photography. The term originates from the Italian words "chiaro," meaning light, and "scuro," meaning dark. Caravaggio, a prominent painter of the late 16th and early 17th centuries, is well-known for his masterful use of chiaroscuro, which added drama and intensity to his compositions.