Tempera

Definition

Tempera is a fast-drying painting medium made from colored pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder, usually egg yolk. This technique has been used since ancient times and was prevalent in the medieval period, particularly before the widespread adoption of oil paint. The unique properties of tempera allow for precise detail and vibrant color, making it an essential medium in art analysis and interpretation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tempera dries quickly, allowing artists to work efficiently and build layers of color, but it requires careful planning because mistakes are harder to correct.
2. This medium was commonly used in Europe during the early Renaissance, particularly by artists such as Sandro Botticelli and Fra Angelico.
3. Tempera can produce a matte finish, which differentiates it from the glossy appearance of oil paintings.
4. Artists often used tempera on wooden panels that were primed with gesso, creating a smooth surface ideal for fine details.
5. The medium's longevity is notable; many tempera paintings from the medieval period have survived well due to its durability when properly applied.

Review Questions

• How does the composition of tempera influence its application in art?
  • The composition of tempera, primarily involving egg yolk as a binder mixed with colored pigments, significantly influences its application. The fast-drying nature allows artists to layer colors quickly but requires precision since corrections are more difficult. Artists must plan their work carefully to achieve the desired effects without making irreversible mistakes, leading to a distinctive style characterized by fine detail and vibrant hues.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using tempera compared to oil paint during the Renaissance.
  • Tempera offers several advantages over oil paint, such as faster drying times and a matte finish that can be desirable for certain artistic effects. However, its quick drying can also be a disadvantage, making it harder to blend colors or make corrections. In contrast, oil paint allows for greater flexibility and blending capabilities over extended periods. Consequently, artists in the Renaissance had to choose between the precise detailing achievable with tempera and the rich textures possible with oils.
• Evaluate the impact of tempera's characteristics on the evolution of painting techniques from ancient to Renaissance art.
  • The characteristics of tempera played a crucial role in the evolution of painting techniques from ancient times through the Renaissance. Its quick-drying nature and ability to produce fine details made it ideal for early religious iconography and panel paintings. As artists transitioned towards more complex compositions during the Renaissance, they started experimenting with layering and glazing techniques, pushing the boundaries of tempera's potential. Ultimately, while oil paint began to dominate due to its versatility, tempera's historical significance shaped foundational practices in Western art that continue to influence contemporary approaches.

Related terms

Egg Yolk: The most common binder used in tempera, providing a glossy finish and enabling the pigment to adhere to the surface.

Panel Painting: A type of painting created on wooden panels that often used tempera before the introduction of oil paints.

Fresco: A technique of mural painting on freshly laid wet plaster, which differs from tempera as it uses water-based pigments applied directly onto the surface.