Fresco

Definition

Fresco is a painting technique that involves applying water-based pigments onto freshly applied wet plaster, allowing the paint to become an integral part of the wall surface as it dries. This method was widely used during the Renaissance for large mural paintings, enabling artists to create vibrant, lasting images on ceilings and walls. Frescoes were often commissioned by wealthy patrons, making them significant in the context of art production and the art market during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fresco painting requires skill and speed since the artist must work quickly before the plaster dries, making planning crucial.
2. Frescoes were not only decorative but also served religious or narrative purposes, often depicting biblical scenes or moral lessons.
3. Prominent artists like Michelangelo and Raphael are famous for their frescoes, such as Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling and Raphael's School of Athens.
4. The colors in frescoes tend to fade over time due to exposure to light and air, but they were originally very vivid.
5. In Renaissance Italy, frescoes were often commissioned by churches, palaces, and wealthy families as displays of status and devotion.

Review Questions

• How did the technique of fresco contribute to the development of large-scale mural paintings during the Renaissance?
  • The fresco technique allowed artists to create large-scale murals directly on walls and ceilings, which was perfect for churches and public spaces. Since frescoes become part of the wall as they dry, they are more durable than other painting methods. This permanence made them a favored choice for patrons looking to enhance their buildings with impressive artworks that conveyed religious themes or displayed wealth and power.
• Discuss how patronage influenced the themes and styles found in Renaissance frescoes.
  • Patronage played a vital role in shaping Renaissance frescoes by determining what themes and styles were produced. Wealthy patrons, including the Church and influential families, often commissioned works that reflected their values, beliefs, or social status. This influence led to a diversity of subjects in frescoes, ranging from religious iconography to classical mythology, showcasing both artistic innovation and adherence to traditional narratives favored by patrons.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Renaissance fresco techniques on contemporary mural art and modern artistic practices.
  • Renaissance fresco techniques have significantly influenced contemporary mural art and modern artistic practices by establishing a foundation for large-scale public artworks. Today, many artists draw inspiration from the methodical approaches used in fresco painting, such as working with large surfaces and integrating narratives into their designs. Furthermore, the emphasis on color permanence and materiality in frescos has informed modern techniques in various media, allowing artists to experiment while paying homage to historical practices.

Related terms

Buon fresco: A technique where pigments mixed with water are applied on wet plaster, allowing for a chemical bond to form as it dries.

Giornata: An Italian term meaning 'a day's work,' referring to the amount of fresco that can be completed in one day of painting on fresh plaster.

Renaissance patronage: The financial support and commissioning of artists by wealthy individuals or institutions during the Renaissance, significantly influencing art production.