masterpiece
/ˈmɑːstəpiːs
/noun
1A work of outstanding artistry, skill, or workmanship: a great literary masterpiece...
- It was noted for its woodcuts and is still considered one of the masterpieces of graphic art.
- His clocks were masterpieces of skill, precision, ingenuity, and determination.
- Consequently, the masterpieces of sculpture and painting were bought in and around their time and many, if not most, are permanently lodged in museums.
Synonyms
triumph, coup, marvellous feat, feather in one's cap, wonder, sensation, outstanding example, paragon, great work, showpiece, gem, prize;
French tour de force
informal hit, knockout
1.1 historical A piece of work by a craftsman accepted as qualification for membership of a guild as an acknowledged master.As an apprentice, you will eventually be preparing yourself to eventually present your masterpiece at the Great Guild Hall - hired out as a journeyman, or hired day laborer for one of our town's projects....
- The next hurdle was to produce a masterpiece that would satisfy the master of the guild so that he could assume the title of master craftsmen and would thus get membership in the guild.
- This resulted in the practice of an apprentice producing a "masterpiece" at the end of his training which he presented to the guild's officers as proof of his ability to practice the trade.