morbidezza

[ mawr-bi-det-suh; Italian mawr-bee-det-tsah ]

noun

, Fine Arts.

1. the effect of extreme softness and delicacy in pictorial and sculptural representations.

Word History and Origins

Origin of morbidezza¹

1615–25; < Italian, equivalent to morbid ( o ) delicate ( morbid ) + -ezza -ice

Example Sentences

He plays the F-minor concerto and the E-flat minor scherzo—from the second Sonata—beautifully, and if he is not so convincing in the Beethoven sonatas, his interpretation of the E-flat Emperor concerto is surprisingly free from morbidezza; it is direct, manly, and musical.

From Project Gutenberg

Morbidezza, mor-bi-det′za, n. that quality of flesh-painting which gives the impression of life.

From Project Gutenberg

It was a treat to hear him say—"morbidezza" and "dolcissimo."

From Project Gutenberg

The colouring was more soft and Roman, with the dull gleam of pearls, a distinguished pallor, morbidezza.

From Project Gutenberg

She is said to have Italian blood in her veins; hence, no doubt, that nervous delicacy of hers, that morbidezza which shades, veils, tempers, refines her talent no less than her beauty.

From Project Gutenberg