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Impasto

impasto (thick paint application)

noun im-PAS-toh Rare

Origin: from Italian impastare, to knead

Usage Note

Impasto describes a technique in which paint is applied so thickly that it retains the texture of the brush or knife strokes. Van Gogh's Impasto is particularly expressive. Neutral noun (das Impasto).

Examples

"Das dicke Impasto auf der Leinwand erzeugt eine fast skulpturale Oberfläche."

Natural Translation

The thick impasto on the canvas creates an almost sculptural surface.

Literal Translation

The thick impasto on the canvas creates an almost sculptural surface.

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