Also camayeu. [F. camaïeu, formerly camahieu, camaheu: see CAMEO.]
1. = CAMEO.
1596. Danett, trans. Comines (1614), 264. Goodly Camayeux excellently well cut.
1727–51. Chambers, Cycl., Camaieu or Camayeu … a peculiar sort of onyx: also … a stone, whereon are found various figures, and representations of landskips, &c., formed … so as to exhibit pictures without painting.
1731. Bailey, vol. II. Camaieu.
1766. [Anstey], Bath Guide, x. 65. And sure no Camayeu was ever yet seen Like that which I purchas’d at Wicksted’s Machine.
2. A method of painting in monochrome.
1727–51. Chambers, Cycl., Camaieu is also used for a painting, wherein there is only one colour; and where the lights and shadows are of gold, wrought on a golden, or azure ground.
1755. in Johnson.
1875. Fortnum, Maiolica, xi. 96. A small plate, the painting of which in blue camaïeu is [etc.].
