What is tempera paint?

Tempera Paint: A Comprehensive Overview

Tempera, also known as egg tempera, is a permanent, fast-drying painting medium consisting of colored pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder, usually glutinous material such as egg yolk. Tempera paints have been used for centuries, predating oil paints.

• Composition: Tempera is traditionally made by combining pigment with a binding agent, most commonly egg yolk. Other binders include whole egg, egg white, gums, glues, and casein. The binder emulsifies the pigment, allowing it to be applied smoothly.

• Characteristics:

  • Fast Drying: Tempera dries very quickly, making it difficult to blend colors in the same way as oil paints.
  • Matte Finish: Tempera typically produces a matte (non-glossy) finish.
  • Durability: Tempera paintings are very durable and long-lasting if properly prepared and cared for.
  • Luminosity: The colors in tempera paintings can appear very luminous due to the thin layers of paint and the way light reflects off the surface.

• Techniques:

  • Layering: Tempera is often applied in thin, transparent layers, known as glazes, to build up color and depth.
  • Hatching: Fine, parallel lines (hatching) can be used to create shading and texture.
  • Drybrush: A drybrush technique can be used to create textured effects.

• Historical Significance: Tempera was a dominant painting medium in Europe from the 12th to the 15th centuries, used for panel paintings, illuminated manuscripts, and frescoes. Famous artists like Sandro Botticelli and Duccio di Buoninsegna used tempera extensively.

• Modern Use: While largely replaced by oil and acrylic paints, tempera is still used by some artists today, especially those interested in traditional techniques. It is also commonly used in schools because it is non-toxic and easy to clean up. Acrylic tempera is a common type that is used in schools. This is a modern paint that uses acrylic polymer as a binder instead of egg.

• Advantages:

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Produces luminous colors
  • Can be very archival

• Disadvantages:

  • Fast drying, making blending difficult
  • Requires careful preparation
  • Can be brittle if applied too thickly