description; picture; portrayal
Refers to a verbal or written depiction, or a mental image, rather than a physical painting or photograph. Often used in academic or literary contexts.
This novel gives a detailed picture of society at that time.
His explanation provides an accurate description of the incident.
Compound of 描 (びょう, 'depict') and 像 (ぞう, 'image, figure'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination naturally yields the meaning 'depicted image' or 'description'.