The Art of Fresco Painting - (Dover Fine Art, History of Art) by Mary P Merrifield (Paperback)

About the Book

Recognized authority in the field discusses painting methods used by such masters as Alberti, Cennini, Vasari, and Borghini; also comments on causes of fresco destruction and how to restore works of art.

Book Synopsis

Fresco painting was reintroduced to public attention in this important work by a recognized authority. In addition to translating descriptions of painting methods used by such masters as Alberti, Cennini, Vasari, and Borghini, the author also discusses causes of fresco destruction and how to retouch, repair, and clean these works of art.

From the Back Cover

Known for its durability, a fresco painting is created in "sections" on freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the painter to comprehensively portray the subject and execute designs with ease. As both the paint and plaster dry, they become completely fused. Highly popular during the late-thirteenth to the mid-sixteenth centuries, fresco painting was almost a lost art by the time this book was first published in 1846. This volume, by a recognized authority in the field, was highly influential in reintroducing fresco painting to public attention.
In addition to translating descriptions of painting methods used by such masters as Alberti, Cennini, Vasari, Borghini, Pozzo, and Pacheco, the author also interprets passages from rare manuscripts on the causes of fresco destruction and how to retouch, repair, and clean these works of art.
Curators and art historians will find this classic reference work of immense importance and interest.
Unabridged Dover (2004) republication of The Art of Fresco Painting: As Practised by the Old Italian and Spanish Masters, originally published by Charles Gilpin and Arthur Wallis, London, 1846.