Final answer:
Fresco painting is an ancient technique where water-based pigments are applied to wet lime plaster, with the style peaking in popularity during the Renaissance. The primary type, 'buon fresco', involves pigments that chemically bond with the wall as the plaster dries.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fresco Painting
Fresco painting is a technique where water-based pigments are applied onto wet plaster. The term originates from the Italian word affresco, which means 'fresh'. There are two types of fresco techniques:
- Buon fresco - Pigments mixed with water are applied to wet, fresh lime mortar or plaster. The colors are absorbed by the plaster and become a permanent part of the wall as it dries and chemically reacts with the air.
- Fresco secco - Pigments are applied to dry plaster and require a binder like egg tempera to adhere to the surface.
Frescoes were particularly popular during the Renaissance period in Europe. This method was preferred for its durability since the pigment becomes fused with the wall, creating images that could last for centuries as long as the plaster remained intact.