What art style is characterized by intense realism and use of chiaroscuro?

The correct answer highlights Caravaggio's style, which is distinctively known for its intense realism and mastery of chiaroscuro. Chiaroscuro is a technique that employs strong contrasts between light and dark to create a three-dimensional effect, bringing depth and volume to the figures in a composition. Caravaggio utilized this technique effectively to enhance the emotional intensity of his subjects, often depicting scenes from religious narratives with vivid detail and dramatic contrasts.

His approach to realism was groundbreaking, as he chose to portray his subjects with naturalism, often using ordinary people as models. This focus on realistic representation, combined with the dramatic lighting effects of chiaroscuro, sets Caravaggio apart from other styles and movements in art history. The intensity of emotion conveyed through his works resonates with viewers, drawing them into the depicted scenes on a personal level.

While Baroque as a broader style also employed chiaroscuro, the specificity of Caravaggio's personal approach and the intense realism uniquely define his contributions to art. Other styles mentioned, such as Rococo and Byzantine, emphasize different artistic principles and aesthetics that do not center on this particular blend of realism and chiaroscuro.