What is Tempera?
Tempera is a type of paint that has been used for centuries by artists around the world. It is a medium that consists of pigment mixed with a water-soluble binder, typically egg yolk. This mixture creates a quick-drying paint that can be applied to a variety of surfaces, such as wood, canvas, or paper. Tempera is known for its vibrant colors and smooth finish, making it a popular choice for artists looking to create detailed and precise works of art.
History of Tempera
The use of tempera can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was used for painting on walls and tombs. The technique was later adopted by the Greeks and Romans, who used tempera to create intricate frescoes and mosaics. During the Middle Ages, tempera became the primary medium for religious art, with artists such as Giotto and Fra Angelico using it to create stunning altarpieces and illuminated manuscripts.
In the Renaissance, tempera experienced a resurgence in popularity, with artists like Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci using it to create some of their most famous works. However, the invention of oil paint in the 15th century led to a decline in the use of tempera, as artists began to favor the versatility and richness of oil colors. Despite this, tempera continued to be used by artists throughout the centuries, with modern artists like Andrew Wyeth and Mark Tansey using it to create contemporary works of art.
Types of Tempera
There are two main types of tempera: egg tempera and casein tempera. Egg tempera is made by mixing pigment with egg yolk, while casein tempera is made by mixing pigment with casein, a protein found in milk. Both types of tempera have their own unique qualities and characteristics, with egg tempera known for its luminous colors and smooth finish, and casein tempera known for its quick-drying properties and matte finish.
In addition to these traditional types of tempera, there are also modern variations that use synthetic binders instead of natural ones. These synthetic temperas offer artists a wider range of colors and textures to work with, while still maintaining the fast-drying and durable qualities of traditional tempera.
Techniques for Using Tempera
There are several techniques that artists can use when working with tempera. One of the most common techniques is layering, where artists build up layers of paint to create depth and texture in their work. Another technique is glazing, where artists apply thin layers of transparent paint over dried layers to create a luminous effect.
Other techniques include stippling, where artists use small dots of paint to create texture, and scumbling, where artists apply a thin layer of paint over a dry layer to create a soft, blurred effect. No matter which technique artists choose to use, tempera requires a steady hand and careful attention to detail to achieve the desired results.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Tempera
One of the main advantages of using tempera is its fast-drying properties, which allow artists to work quickly and make corrections easily. Tempera also has a long history of use in art, making it a reliable and time-tested medium for artists to work with. Additionally, tempera is known for its vibrant colors and smooth finish, making it a popular choice for artists looking to create detailed and precise works of art.
However, there are also some disadvantages to using tempera. One of the main drawbacks is its limited color range, as tempera can be difficult to mix and blend to create new colors. Additionally, tempera can be prone to cracking and flaking over time, especially if not properly prepared or applied. Despite these drawbacks, many artists continue to use tempera for its unique qualities and historical significance.
Famous Artists Known for Using Tempera
Throughout history, many famous artists have used tempera to create some of their most iconic works. One of the most well-known artists to use tempera was Sandro Botticelli, who used the medium to create his famous painting “The Birth of Venus.” Another artist known for his use of tempera was Andrew Wyeth, who used the medium to create his realistic and detailed paintings of the American landscape.
Other famous artists who have used tempera include Leonardo da Vinci, who used the medium to create his masterpiece “The Last Supper,” and Mark Tansey, who used tempera to create his thought-provoking and surreal works. These artists, along with many others, have helped to establish tempera as a versatile and enduring medium in the world of art.