Material
Tempera
Paint whose pigment is bound in a water-miscible emulsion, traditionally often egg yolk. It dries quickly to a matt, precise surface.
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Understanding the term
Egg tempera is made by mixing fine pigment with egg yolk and is often applied in thin, controlled strokes on a rigid support. It dries quickly with little colour shift. Modern products labelled 'tempera' may, however, use other water-based binders.
Tempera is more than the name of a raw material. It affects form, weight, surface, durability and the way an object ages, making it central to both experience and assessment.
Look for variation in colour and texture, joins, wear and later repairs. Natural evidence of making and age should be distinguished from damage; that distinction is essential when describing older art and design.
Related entries
Continue through the glossary with terms from the same field.