What is the fresco technique?

The fresco technique is defined as a method in which paint is applied directly to wet plaster. This approach allows the pigment to bond chemically with the plaster as it dries, resulting in a durable and long-lasting finish. This method of mural painting has been used since ancient times, particularly renowned in the Renaissance period where artists like Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel utilized this technique to create expansive and vivid murals.

Using wet plaster ensures that the colors remain vibrant over time, as the pigments become part of the wall rather than merely sitting on the surface. This intervention can withstand the test of time and exposure to various environmental conditions when done properly. The integrity and longevity of frescoes is a crucial aspect of their historical significance, making this technique distinct in the field of mural painting.

Other techniques mentioned may involve different ways of applying paint, such as to dry plaster or onto canvas, but these do not possess the same level of durability or bonding found in the fresco method.