1. the art or practice of decorating in several colors, especially the painting of ancient statues, buildings, and other works of art
Usage: art history; archaeology

Examples

• The museum’s exhibit revealed the original polychromy of Greek marble sculptures.
• Archaeological evidence shows that ancient temples featured elaborate polychromy.
• The restoration team carefully studied traces of polychromy on the medieval cathedral.
• Many people don’t realize that classical statues were originally decorated with polychromy.
• The artist’s research into ancient polychromy influenced her modern paintings.
• Digital reconstruction revealed the stunning polychromy of the Roman villa’s walls.