What Are The Two Types Of Fresco? Why Would An Artist Choose One Type Over The Other?

There are basically two types of frescoes – buon fresco paintings and secco fresco paintings. The two types of frescoes differ in their approach. The buon frescoes are done on wet plaster, while the secco frescoes are done on dry plaster. Using the buon technique, painters use pigment that has been mixed with water to paint on lime mortar or plaster that is still wet. This technique does not require an additional plaster as the pigment, after being mixed with the water will bind to the wall. A good example of usage of this style is the Basilica of St. Francis of Assissi.

A secco painting is, on the other hand, done on dry paint, and therefore the longevity of the work is not for you. A secco painting requires a medium to bind the pigment. The buon frescoes last longer. Therefore, if an artist wanted to leave a lasting mark of his work on frescoes, he would definitely opt for this type of fresco work. The secco frescoes do not last as long as the buon frescoes. They were mostly used to give the final touches to a work of art, or to correct any mistakes that might be apparent in the buon fresco.