tableau
/ˈtabləʊ
/noun (plural tableaux /ˈtabləʊz/ or tableaus)
A group of models or motionless figures representing a scene from a story or from history; a tableau vivant: in the first act the action is presented in a series of tableaux...
- The film is composed of a series of tableaux, with scenes reminiscent of detailed paintings.
- A series of tableaux powerfully suggest the story's underlying violence: Nancy's death blow freezes mid-air, and Oliver's sound thrashings are hidden from view (but not from sound) in a wooden box.
- And as part of this process, the two have conceived, designed and photographed a series of tableaux that aim to rearrange and critically portray stereotypical images of the South Indian woman.
Synonyms
picture, painting, representation, portrayal, illustration, image
pageant, tableau vivant, human representation, parade, diorama, scene
Origin
Late 17th century (in the sense 'picture', figuratively 'picturesque description'): from French, literally 'picture', diminutive of table (see table).