Tempera
Definition
This term refers to a painting medium made by mixing pigments with a water-soluble binder, such as egg yolk. Tempera was the primary medium used for panel paintings until the advent of oil painting in the 15th century, and it is known for its bright colors, fine detail, and long-lasting durability.
History
Tempera painting has a long history, particularly in the Byzantine and early Renaissance periods, where it was used to create religious icons and altarpieces. The medium's ability to produce fine detail and luminous colors made it ideal for depicting religious scenes and figures with great clarity and precision.
Notable Examples
Sandro Botticelli
The Birth of Venus,
Giotto
The Ognissanti Madonna,
Key Artists & Movements
Key figures include Sandro Botticelli, whose masterpiece The Birth of Venusexemplifies the use of tempera in creating finely detailed, luminous works, and Giotto, an early Renaissance painter known for his use of tempera in works like The Ognissanti Madonna, which marked a shift towards more naturalistic representation in art.
Techniques & Materials
Techniques involve the preparation of a smooth, rigid panel, often made of wood, followed by the application of gesso (a mixture of chalk and glue) to create a stable surface for painting. Pigments are mixed with egg yolk or another binder and applied in thin, precise layers using fine brushes. Tempera dries quickly, allowing for the buildup of color and detail but requiring careful planning and execution. The medium is known for its clarity, luminosity, and durability, with many tempera paintings from the Middle Ages and Renaissance still in excellent condition today.
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