What is egg Tempera?

Egg tempera is an ancient painting technique that uses egg yolk as the binding medium. It was the primary method used by artists from the Middle Ages to the Italian Renaissance. Egg tempera dries quickly, creating a smooth and luminous surface. It is also very durable, and paintings created with egg tempera can last for centuries.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create an egg tempera painting:

1. Prepare the canvas:

- Stretch the canvas over a wooden frame.

- Apply a layer of gesso to the canvas and allow it to dry.

- Sand the canvas until it is smooth.

- Apply a layer of rabbit-skin glue and allow it to dry.

- Sand the canvas again until it is smooth.

2. Prepare the egg tempera paint:

- Separate the egg yolk from the egg white.

- Add a small amount of water to the egg yolk and mix until it is well combined.

- Add the desired amount of dry pigment powder and mix until it is well combined.

3. Apply the egg tempera paint:

- Use a brush to apply the egg tempera paint to the canvas.

- Work in thin layers and allow each layer to dry before applying the next.

4. Finish the painting:

- Once you are finished painting, you can varnish the painting to protect it.

- Allow the varnish to dry completely before hanging the painting.

Tips for creating egg tempera paintings:

- Egg tempera dries quickly, so it is important to work quickly and have all of your materials prepared before you begin painting.

- Avoid using too much water in your egg tempera paint, as this can cause the paint to become too thin and runny.

- Apply the egg tempera paint in thin layers and allow each layer to dry before applying the next.

- Varnish the painting to protect it from dust and dirt.

Egg tempera is a beautiful and versatile painting technique that can be used to create a wide variety of effects. It is a great medium for anyone interested in creating traditional art.