What technique is prominently featured in both "The Death of General Wolfe" and the works of Caravaggio?

Chiaroscuro is a technique that involves the use of strong contrasts between light and dark to give the illusion of volume in modeling three-dimensional objects and figures. In "The Death of General Wolfe" by Benjamin West, the dramatic interplay of light and shadow accentuates the emotional gravity of the scene and highlights key figures, drawing the viewer's attention. This use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and enhances the narrative impact of the painting.

Caravaggio, known for his mastery of chiaroscuro, utilized this technique to create dramatic tension and realism in his paintings. His approach involved not just light and shadow but also a deep understanding of how they could be manipulated to produce a more visceral experience for the viewer. In both West's and Caravaggio's works, chiaroscuro plays a pivotal role in conveying emotion, drama, and the relationship between figures and their environment, making it the common technique that connects the two.