---
title: "Fresco — AP Art History Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Fresco is painting on wet plaster so pigment fuses into the wall. Learn how it spans AP Art History from Roman catacombs to Mexican muralism in Unit 4."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-art-history/key-terms/fresco"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Art History"
---

# Fresco — AP Art History Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Fresco is a painting technique where pigments are applied onto wet plaster, allowing the colors to become embedded in the wall as it dries. It creates a durable and long-lasting artwork.

## Related Study Guides

- [Unit 2 Overview: Ancient Mediterranean, 3500-300 BCE](/ap-art-history/unit-2/review/study-guide/1GHHDAbY6gK3IXBEM9IO)
- [4.5 Unit 4 Required Works](/ap-art-history/unit-4/unit-4-required-works/study-guide/3QqiFCaqgCzGoSxdWOAt)
- [4.3 Materials, Processes, and Techniques in Later European and American Art](/ap-art-history/unit-4/materials-techniques-later-european-american-art/study-guide/3zXTSNcjTVGF1We1I58j)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Buon Fresco: This term refers to true fresco, where pigments are applied directly onto wet lime plaster.
- Secco Fresco: This term refers to a technique where pigments are applied onto dry plaster instead of wet.
- Mural: A large-scale artwork painted directly on a wall or ceiling, often using fresco techniques.