Venetian Artisan’s Classical Technique in Applying Silver

For thousands of years the eyes of the civilized world have been captivated by the refined vitality, rich traditions, and dynamic advancements that define Italian art, architecture, fashion, cuisine, and mechanical design.  Venetian artisans during the Renaissance were respected for their skillful application of silver leaf on paintings, furniture, and objects of art.

The exquisite colors and textures of these works of art were enhanced by the mysterious quality of light that they reflect.  The secret lay not only in the silver leaf itself but also in the surface to which it was applied.

On reinforced panels made of linden or poplar wood, the artisans would spread gesso or linen soaked in gesso which became very hard when dried.  A smooth finish would be created by rubbing on the surface before the artist would begin to draw his image in charcoal or sharpened lead.

Gold or silver leaf with red sizing would be applied to the background and tooled to add texture and definition.  When the gilding was firm, the artist would build up layers of tempera and finish the painting with layers of varnish.

Yuroz fused his classical techniques, his unique contemporary artistic expression in utilizing colors, textures and light with the illusive secret of these classical artisans from the 13^th to 15^th century  to create the birth of Yuroz’s unique Venetian Silver Paintings Collection.