Tempera

Definition

Tempera is a fast-drying paint made from colored pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder, often egg yolk. This medium has been used for centuries, primarily before the widespread adoption of oil paint, and it is known for its ability to create fine detail and vibrant color in artworks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tempera was widely used by artists during the Renaissance for panel paintings due to its ability to produce detailed and precise work.
2. Unlike oil paints that can take days or weeks to dry, tempera dries quickly, allowing artists to work efficiently and build up layers without long waiting periods.
3. Tempera has a matte finish that can create a luminous quality in artwork, which differs from the glossy finish often associated with oil paints.
4. The use of egg yolk as a binder provides not only adhesion but also a unique translucency that allows underlying layers to influence the final color.
5. Although tempera was largely replaced by oil painting in the 15th century, it has seen a revival among contemporary artists who appreciate its distinct qualities.

Review Questions

• How does tempera's quick-drying nature influence the techniques and styles used by artists in historical contexts?
  • The quick-drying nature of tempera allows artists to work rapidly and apply multiple layers without lengthy drying times. This characteristic encouraged techniques such as glazing, where transparent layers of color could be built up to achieve depth and vibrancy. Artists were able to focus on fine details and precision, leading to highly refined works that showcased their skill and control over the medium.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using tempera paint compared to oil paint in historical art practices.
  • Tempera offers advantages such as quick drying time, ease of use, and vibrant color application. However, its disadvantages include less flexibility in blending colors and a more limited range of textures compared to oil paint. While oil paints allow for subtle gradations and layered techniques, tempera requires more careful planning and execution due to its rapid drying time and tendency to dry matte.
• Evaluate the impact of tempera on the evolution of painting techniques and mediums leading into modern art practices.
  • Tempera played a crucial role in shaping early painting techniques by emphasizing precision and detail, which set standards for later mediums like oil paint. As artists transitioned towards oil painting in the Renaissance, they incorporated many tempera techniques into their practices, leading to innovations in layering and texture. The revival of tempera in contemporary art reflects a broader exploration of historical methods, encouraging artists today to experiment with diverse materials while understanding their rich heritage in art history.

Related terms

Egg Yolk: The yellow part of an egg, often used as a binder in tempera paint, giving it a rich texture and quick drying properties.

Fresco: A mural painting technique where water-based pigments are applied on freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the colors to become an integral part of the wall surface.

Gesso: A preparatory coating applied to surfaces before painting, often used in tempera to create a smooth base for the application of the paint.