The spelling of the word "tempera painting" is straightforward once you understand the pronunciation. It's pronounced /ˈtɛmpərə/ with emphasis on the first syllable, followed by "uh-rah." The word "tempera" refers to a type of painting that uses a binding medium, usually egg yolk or egg white, mixed with water and pigment. It was widely used in the Middle Ages and Renaissance for frescoes, altarpieces, and illuminated manuscripts. Today, it is still practiced by some artists who appreciate its luminosity and durability.
Tempera painting is a traditional and ancient method of painting that utilizes pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder, usually an egg yolk, as the medium. This technique dates back to ancient civilizations and has been particularly popular in European art since the Middle Ages up until the 16th century when it was gradually replaced by oil painting.
The process of tempera painting involves mixing pigments with the binder in order to create a smooth, liquid consistency. The mixture, known as tempera, is then applied to a prepared surface, such as wood, canvas, or panel. It dries quickly, producing a matte finish that is known for its luminosity and durability.
Tempera painting allows for precise and detailed brushwork, with layers of paint being built up gradually to create depth and dimension. The colors produced by tempera are often vibrant and have a distinctive, flat appearance due to the matte finish. It also lends itself well to decorative effects and can be easily modified by adding water or other substances for various artistic effects.
Throughout history, tempera painting has been favored for its fast-drying properties, making it suitable for frescoes and mural paintings. It has been used in a variety of artistic styles, including religious icons, illuminated manuscripts, and Renaissance paintings. Today, while oil painting has become the predominant medium, tempera painting still holds its place in contemporary artwork, with artists sometimes combining it with other mediums or using it as an underpainting technique.
The word "tempera" is derived from the Latin word "temperare", which means "to mix" or "to temper". In the context of painting, tempera refers to a type of painting technique where pigments are mixed with a water-based binder or medium, usually egg yolk, to create a paint that can be applied onto various surfaces such as wood, canvas, or plaster. This method of painting has a long history and was commonly used in ancient and medieval times before the advent of oil painting.