Fresco
The technique of Fresco throve in Italy between the 14 th century and the Neoclassical Age.
In Fresco the binding material is calcium carbonate or lime which is quarried in the form of limestone, burned and then slaked, meaning that water is added to turn the lime into lime plaster. This lime-water mixture becomes calcium hydroxide plaster which during its drying process has colour-binding properties . Very important is the type of plaster which must be prepared to exact standards and its composition of sand and lime. When the plaster dries it sets with a rocklike cohesion and the pigments dry with it as an integral part of the surface.
This type of painting is chosen for its longevity to decorate exterior of buildings.
The final process is the retouch with casein distemper. This is important for the transparency and the depth effect of the painting.
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