Masterpiece (or chef d'œuvre) in modern usage refers to a creation that's been given much critical praise, especially one that's considered the greatest work of a person's career or to a work of outstanding creativity, skill or workmanship. Originally, the term masterpiece referred to a piece of work produced by an apprentice or journeyman aspiring to become a master craftsman in the old European guild system. His fitness to qualify for guild membership was judged partially by the Masterp… (More on Masterpiece)