Pronunciation: [skˈʌmblɪŋ] (IPA) 
Scumbling is a technique used in painting where a light layer of color is applied over a darker background to create a hazy or blurry effect. The spelling of scumbling is /skʌmblɪŋ/. The 's' at the beginning is pronounced as /sk/ as it is followed by a consonant. The 'u' is pronounced as /ʌ/ and the 'm' and 'b' together make the /mb/ sound. The final '-ing' ending is pronounced as /ɪŋ/ to make it a present participle.
Scumbling is a technique used in painting that involves the application of a thin, translucent layer of paint or glaze over an already dried or partially dried layer of paint. This technique is typically used to create a softening effect or to modify the appearance of the underlying colors and tones.
The process of scumbling begins by applying a small amount of paint onto a brush or tool and lightly dragging it across the surface of the previous layer. The goal is to create a hazy or broken texture, allowing the colors or tones underneath to partially show through. By using a light touch, the artist can achieve a delicate and subtle blending effect.
Scumbling is often employed in landscape painting to create atmospheric effects, such as the softening of distant elements or the portrayal of hazy skies. It can also be used to modify colors, tonal values, or to create texture in other types of artwork.
The term "scumbling" originated from the Dutch word "schijnen," which means "to appear." It gained popularity during the Renaissance period when artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt utilized this technique to achieve a sense of depth and luminosity in their artworks.
In summary, scumbling refers to a painting technique where a translucent layer of paint is lightly applied over an existing layer, allowing the underlying colors and tones to show through. It is commonly used to create softening effects, modify colors, and achieve atmospheric or textural qualities in paintings.
The act of spreading colours of a semi-transparent character over other colours to modify the effect.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "scumbling" has its origins in the Dutch language. It is derived from the Dutch word "schijnen", which means "to shine" or "to gleam". In the art world, "scumbling" refers to a painting technique where a thin, translucent layer of paint is applied over another layer to create a subtle change in color or texture. The term was introduced in English during the 18th century, borrowing from the Dutch artistic traditions of the time.
