Published on September 18, 2011 11:57 AM
GOLD... This precious metal fascinated medieval society. It represented spiritual, transcendental light,[1] and expressed divine intelligence.[2] The medieval love of gold is exemplified during the Byzantine period, when the establishment of the Church inspired resplendent domes, mosaics, icons, and architecture—each brushed with the light of God. Illuminated manuscripts echoed these achievements in miniature, capturing minute reflections of medieval life and devotion. Gold became an intrinsic element of the illuminated page, and borders, initials, backgrounds, and letters provided many opportunities for spiritual expression.[3]
A review of methods on applying gold leaf on illuminated manuscripts using raised gesso
Contemporary Gilding Techniques on Manuscripts
A detailed, chronological study of manuscript gold decoration is a formidable task, far beyond the scope of this article.[4] How gold bases developed is also unclear; current written analyses of illuminated manuscripts omit specific references to gesso compositions.
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Traditional Oil Painting: The Revival of Historical Artists' Materials
In recent years, we have witnessed the trend towards the use of traditional artists’ materials—painting materials used prior to the twentieth century. This is evident from the growth of small artists’ color companies and in the increased interest among artists about historical painting techniques and materials. Why this trend is occurring is subject to much speculation, but some may say it is due to the revival in figurative art, especially since the 1970s. I would prefer to say that interest in figurative art never really died out, but rather it has survived abstract art.
If this is the case, that the trend towards traditional artists’ materials is related to the renewed interest in figurative art, than Bill Creevy, author and contributing writer to American Artist magazine, may have identified the motivation for this trend. He said, “The advantage to being a figurative artist is that you don’t have to really worry about being in or out of fashion.