Tone

Tone can be used for a range of effects:

• to create the illusion of form

• to create a particular atmosphere

• to create contrast and focus attention

• to suggest depth and distance

In your Higher Exam you can talk about the following areas of tone to gain marks when analysing work.

• illusion of light and shadow

• highlight, midtone, and shadow

• tonal range and balance

• application of tone — for example blended, flat, rough, graduated, chiaroscuro, grisaille, sfumato

• description of tone — for example light, dark, flat, wide tonal range, contrasting

When answering a question it's good practice to have structure for each point you make. 

What - Name the visual element or expressive effect 

Where - Describe exactly where in the painting it is 

Why - Analyse what the impact of the element used has on the overall visual impact or mood and atmosphere of the piece.

Key - What - Blue, Where - Red, Why - Purple

The artist has used paler tones upon the buildings as they recede into the distance towards the middle of the painting this helps to create a sense of depth within the artwork thus creating the illusion of realism.

The artist has made the large building on the right appear impressive due to the use of contrasting tonal variation upon the columns and steps highlighting its significance as an area of focus within the painting, this gives the building elevated status when compared with the others.

The artist has painted the ships and boats upon the water with varied tonal attributes indicating clear form such as the 2 dark boats in the foreground which enhances their prominence within the scene.