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Unlocking the Secrets of
Medieval Painters and Illuminators

By Sybil Archibald & Karen Gorst

ABOUT THE SUPPORTS CHAPTER:

The supports chapter contains the most detailed technical information ever put together on how to use parchment. Couple this with historical information, medieval Islamic paper coating practices, and an extensive troubleshooting section and it becomes clear this book is a “must have” for anyone interested in parchment or paper.

Pumice Stone

as seen in Lapis & Gold

EXCERPT:

Parchment Working Properties: General Characteristics

Parchment is a wonderfully sexy support which is a joy to work with.  The skin rises to caress the pen and kiss the brush.  The paint rests pleasingly on the surface.  This surprising quality is a result of the skin melting slightly with the application of water creating a film of gelatin.  This gelatin is not passive.  It actually mixes with the paint, becoming an active participant in the painting.  Parchment is alive.  It is your creative partner.  But, it has its pros and cons.  On the positive side, parchment gives all the things we just discussed.  On the negative side, as with any happy relationship, its boundaries must be respected.  Because it is so sensitive to water, wet techniques will cause it to swell and cockle (wrinkle or pucker).  This means large areas of color need to be carefully laid down with small dry brushstrokes instead of sweeping wet washes. If you are a daredevil, try applying an extra dark wash to a large area and blotting immediately to dry the surface.

A PARTIAL LIST OF TOPICS COVERED:

The history of parchment, paper & papyrus

Pounces

Preparing parchment

Mounting parchment

The characteristics of the two sides of parchment

What is parchment

Historical usage of parchment

Differences in parchment made from different types of animals

Considerations when purchasing parchment

Medieval Islamic paper sizing (ahar)

The spiritual meaning of supports in artwork

About the Authors

View Other Chapters From Lapis & Gold:

(c) 2006-9 Sybil Archibald & Karen Gorst
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