Tempera

Definition

Tempera is a fast-drying painting medium made from colored pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder, often egg yolk. This technique has been widely used throughout history, particularly in ancient art, where it allowed for the creation of detailed and vibrant images. In the context of ancient Egyptian art, tempera was often used to produce frescoes and panel paintings, showcasing the skills and creativity of artists, including women who contributed to this rich artistic tradition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tempera was favored in ancient Egypt for its quick-drying properties, allowing artists to work efficiently on large projects like frescoes.
2. The use of egg yolk as a binder in tempera provides a distinct sheen and durability to the colors, which was especially valued in ancient artworks.
3. Women artists in ancient Egypt often worked in workshops that specialized in tempera painting, contributing significantly to the visual culture of their time.
4. Tempera allowed for fine detail and precise lines, making it ideal for the intricate designs found in Egyptian tomb paintings and other ceremonial art.
5. While tempera was predominant in ancient times, it later fell out of favor with the rise of oil painting techniques during the Renaissance.

Review Questions

• How did the properties of tempera influence the techniques and outcomes of ancient Egyptian artworks?
  • Tempera's fast-drying nature allowed ancient Egyptian artists to apply layers quickly and efficiently, which was crucial for creating large frescoes and detailed panel paintings. The use of egg yolk as a binder gave tempera a unique finish and helped preserve the vibrancy of colors over time. This technique enabled artists to achieve intricate details and clear outlines, reflecting the high level of skill among both male and female artists in ancient Egypt.
• Discuss the role of women artists in ancient Egypt's use of tempera and how it impacted the artistic landscape.
  • Women artists played a vital role in the production of tempera artworks in ancient Egypt, often working alongside male counterparts in workshops. Their contributions were significant not just in quantity but also in the variety of subjects they depicted, ranging from religious iconography to everyday life. By participating in this artistic tradition, women helped shape the cultural heritage of ancient Egypt, leaving behind a legacy that reflects their skills and creativity.
• Evaluate how the transition from tempera to oil painting during the Renaissance affected the preservation and evolution of artistic techniques established in ancient Egypt.
  • The transition from tempera to oil painting during the Renaissance marked a significant shift in artistic techniques that had roots in earlier practices like those seen in ancient Egypt. While tempera allowed for precise details and quick application, oil paints provided greater flexibility with blending and layering colors. This evolution led to changes in how artists approached composition and color usage, resulting in artworks that retained some aspects of earlier methods while embracing new possibilities. The decline of tempera also meant that many ancient techniques were forgotten or transformed as new mediums gained prominence, impacting how future generations understood and valued historical art forms.

Related terms

Fresco: A technique of mural painting on freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the colors to become an integral part of the wall.

Pigment: A substance that imparts color to materials, used in various art mediums including tempera and oil paints.

Panel Painting: A painting executed on a wooden panel, often prepared with a gesso ground to receive tempera or oil paint.