Egg tempera

Definition

Egg tempera is a fast-drying painting medium made from pigment mixed with a water-soluble binder, commonly egg yolk. This technique has been used for centuries, particularly during the Renaissance, and is known for its luminous colors and fine detail. The use of egg as a binder provides a unique texture and finish to the artwork, setting it apart from other paint types like oil or acrylic.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Egg tempera dries quickly, allowing artists to build up layers and create intricate details in their work.
2. The medium is typically applied to a rigid surface such as wood panels, which supports the delicate nature of the paint.
3. Historically, egg tempera was favored by early Renaissance painters like Botticelli and Duccio for its ability to produce vibrant colors.
4. Unlike oil paints, which can be blended over a longer period, egg tempera requires more immediate application due to its quick drying time.
5. Egg tempera artworks often exhibit a matte finish, which differs from the glossy sheen achieved with oil paints.

Review Questions

• How does egg tempera compare to oil paint in terms of drying time and application techniques?
  • Egg tempera dries much faster than oil paint, which allows artists to build up layers quickly but also requires them to work more rapidly during application. While oil paint can be blended over an extended period, giving artists flexibility, egg tempera demands precise and swift brushwork. This quick drying time can create challenges for blending colors but also offers unique opportunities for layering and detail that are characteristic of this medium.
• Discuss the historical significance of egg tempera in Renaissance art and its impact on artists of that time.
  • Egg tempera was crucial during the Renaissance as it allowed artists to achieve vibrant colors and intricate details in their paintings. Artists like Botticelli relied on egg tempera for its luminosity and texture, which contributed to the overall aesthetic of Renaissance artworks. The technique's precision complemented the emerging focus on realism and human emotion in art, marking a significant evolution in painting styles during this period.
• Evaluate the importance of preparing surfaces such as wood panels when using egg tempera and how it affects the final artwork.
  • Preparing surfaces like wood panels is vital when working with egg tempera because it ensures proper adhesion and durability of the paint. A well-prepared surface allows for smooth application and prevents the paint from cracking or peeling over time. The choice of gesso as a primer also influences the texture and absorbency of the panel, which can significantly impact how colors appear in the final artwork. This preparation process highlights the meticulous nature of egg tempera painting and how it contributes to preserving artistic integrity.

Related terms

Pigment: A substance that gives color to paint and can be derived from natural or synthetic sources.

Binder: A material used in paint that helps to hold the pigment together and adhere it to the surface.

Gesso:

A primer used on surfaces before painting, which prepares the canvas or board for better adhesion of the paint.