What is the best clue to identify shading made under hard light?

Clear sharp shadow edge

Hard light travels in a more direct and concentrated way, so it creates strong differences between the lit surface and the unlit area. The boundary of the cast shadow is usually clearly visible and relatively sharp. The exact appearance can be affected by distance and the shape of the object, but a distinct edge is the most useful visual clue in this basic art question. Soft, diffused light produces a gradual transition instead.

Option B is correct because a clear, sharp shadow edge indicates a concentrated light source or hard lighting. Option A describes a softer light condition, where the shadow becomes blurry and gentle. Option C concerns colour properties rather than the quality of light, and option D is not a lighting clue. Thus, observing the shadow boundary helps an artist identify hard light.

This is a Class 10 Art Education question. Chapter: Fundamentals of Visual Arts. Topic: Elements of Art.