Masterclass: Egg Tempera Painting of the Florentine School
This five-day workshop offers a comprehensive introduction to the traditional practice of egg tempera painting, based on the techniques and materials described by the Florentine artist Cennino Cennini in his renowned handbook, Il Libro dell'Arte.
Guided step by step, students will create an egg tempera painting on a traditionally prepared gesso panel. The process begins with the preparation of mineral and organic pigments, mixed with water and fresh egg yolk.
From there, the subject is developed in subtle tones using verdaccio—a monochromatic underpainting in earth colours that establishes the tonal structure. This foundational layer allows the final application of pure, vibrant colours to emerge with clarity and luminosity. Verdaccio is the cornerstone of Renaissance painting. Through this ancient technique, colour is revealed by the dynamic interplay of light and shadow, resulting in rich, luminous tones unique to this historic method.
Once the underpainting is complete, students will begin applying thin layers of pure colour. They will receive instruction on this method, including a discussion of its philosophical underpinnings and the benefits it offers compared to pre-mixing colours before application.
Finally, students will also sample a simple gilding technique to finish or highlight small areas with gold leaf. This technique uses garlic juice as the mordant (or glue), following Cennini’s original instructions.
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This five-day workshop offers a comprehensive introduction to the traditional practice of egg tempera painting, based on the techniques and materials described by the Florentine artist Cennino Cennini in his renowned handbook, Il Libro dell'Arte.
Guided step by step, students will create an egg tempera painting on a traditionally prepared gesso panel. The process begins with the preparation of mineral and organic pigments, mixed with water and fresh egg yolk.
From there, the subject is developed in subtle tones using verdaccio—a monochromatic underpainting in earth colours that establishes the tonal structure. This foundational layer allows the final application of pure, vibrant colours to emerge with clarity and luminosity. Verdaccio is the cornerstone of Renaissance painting. Through this ancient technique, colour is revealed by the dynamic interplay of light and shadow, resulting in rich, luminous tones unique to this historic method.
Once the underpainting is complete, students will begin applying thin layers of pure colour. They will receive instruction on this method, including a discussion of its philosophical underpinnings and the benefits it offers compared to pre-mixing colours before application.
Finally, students will also sample a simple gilding technique to finish or highlight small areas with gold leaf. This technique uses garlic juice as the mordant (or glue), following Cennini’s original instructions.
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