Fresco secco

Definition

Fresco secco is a technique of mural painting where pigments mixed with a binder are applied to dry plaster. This method contrasts with true fresco, where paint is applied to wet plaster, allowing the colors to become an integral part of the wall. Fresco secco allows for greater detail and vibrancy in colors, though it is less durable than true fresco, making it an important consideration in the history of wall paintings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fresco secco relies on the application of paint to dry plaster, which allows for more precision and detail in the artwork compared to wet techniques.
2. One of the main challenges with fresco secco is its vulnerability to flaking and degradation over time, making preservation efforts crucial.
3. This technique was commonly used in ancient Greek and Roman art, as well as during the Renaissance period for various decorative wall paintings.
4. Artists could use brighter colors and more complex designs with fresco secco due to the control it afforded them over the drying process.
5. The term 'fresco' itself derives from the Italian word 'fresco,' meaning 'fresh,' emphasizing the importance of the surface condition when using different painting methods.

Review Questions

• How does fresco secco differ from buon fresco in terms of technique and durability?
  • Fresco secco differs from buon fresco primarily in that fresco secco is applied to dry plaster while buon fresco is painted on wet plaster. The durability of buon fresco is higher because the pigments become part of the wall as it dries, leading to a more resilient finish. In contrast, fresco secco can flake off over time since it sits on the surface of the plaster, making it less stable but allowing for greater detail and color variation.
• What are some common challenges artists face when using fresco secco compared to other painting methods?
  • Artists using fresco secco encounter challenges such as its susceptibility to fading and flaking over time, which can threaten the integrity of their work. Additionally, because this method requires careful application to dry plaster, artists need to plan their designs meticulously. They may also have to address environmental factors like humidity that can affect the drying process and the longevity of the colors used.
• Evaluate the significance of fresco secco in ancient Greek and Roman art and its influence on later artistic movements.
  • Fresco secco played a vital role in ancient Greek and Roman art by allowing artists to create detailed murals that adorned public and private spaces. This technique influenced Renaissance artists who sought to revive classical themes and methods, integrating fresco secco into their works alongside buon fresco. The ability to achieve vibrant colors and intricate designs made it a favored choice for murals in churches and palaces throughout history, illustrating its lasting impact on Western art traditions.

Related terms

Buon fresco: A painting technique where water-based pigments are applied to freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the colors to bond as the plaster dries.

Tempera: A painting medium made from pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder, often egg yolk, used for both fresco secco and panel paintings.

Mural: A large-scale painting or artwork directly applied to a wall or ceiling surface, encompassing both fresco and other painting techniques.