Egg yolk revealed as a secret ingredient in Old Masters’ paintings

Researchers reveal the intentional use of egg yolk in Renaissance paintings

A new study published in the journal Nature Communications has finally unraveled the mystery behind some of the most iconic paintings in history. Researchers have discovered that the inclusion of egg yolk in oil paintings by the Old Masters was likely intentional, and sheds light on their technical knowledge and expertise.

Chemical engineers from Europe conducted a meticulous analysis of classic oil paintings to determine that trace amounts of protein residue were present. Using two different recipes, they recreated oil-based paints used by Renaissance painters, adding egg yolk to the mix. They found that simply by adding a small amount of egg yolk to their works, the Old Masters could achieve amazing changes of properties in the oil paint.

Egg yolk as a key ingredient in achieving desired effects in oil painting

Compared with the ancient Egyptian medium called tempera, oil paint creates more intense colors, allows for smooth color transitions, and dries less quickly. By adding egg yolk to oil paint, artists could tune its properties and create a range of desired effects. For instance, it made oil paints more resistant to humidity, which helped preserve artworks for decades.

Adding egg yolk also created stronger bonds between pigment particles, resulting in stiffer paint ideal for impasto painting – a raised, thick style that adds texture to art. The addition of egg yolk allowed painters to add more pigment to the oil and create more vivid images, leading to an increase in realism and depth. Egg yolk could even reduce wrinkling effect by creating a firmer paint consistency since wrinkling sometimes happened with oil paints.

The downside of adding egg yolk is that it makes the paint take longer to dry, meaning artists had to wait longer to add another coat, making it difficult for them to complete their work promptly.

The discovery contributes to better art preservation

The study is not only informative for art historians and enthusiasts but also provides useful insights for art preservation. Egg yolk’s proteins, phospholipids, and antioxidants slowed paint oxidation, which can cause paint to turn yellow over time, protecting the painting from yellowing or deteriorating prematurely.

Understanding how artists select and manipulate their materials can help people gain a deeper understanding of the artworks themselves. By studying the chemistry and physics behind Renaissance paintings, we can glimpse into the mind of the Old Masters and marvel at their technical prowess.

In conclusion, egg yolk was a well-kept secret ingredient that enabled artists to achieve various desired effects in oil painting, contributing to masterpieces that have stood the test of time. The study sheds light on hidden aspects of art history and helps us better appreciate and preserve these invaluable works of art.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons