Question

1. what does the word sfumato most nearly mean as it is used in the passage?

a. painted with bold outlines
b. gradually blended without sharp edges
c. brightly colored
d. quickly sketched

Explanation:

Sfumato is a painting technique that involves the gradual blending of colors or tones without sharp edges (creating a soft, hazy effect). Option A refers to bold outlines (opposite of sfumato). Option C is about bright colors (not related to the blending aspect of sfumato). Option D is about quick sketching (sfumato is a painting technique, not about speed of sketching). Option B matches the definition of sfumato as it involves gradual blending without sharp edges.

Answer:

B. Gradually blended without sharp edges