Talk:Sfumato

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I know that this is only a summary description but sfumato isn't really layers of transparent paint. More accurately the darks are transparent (e.g., asphaltum) and the lights are opaque. It's a little bit of a challenge to make lights transparent anyway; they're usually opaque (I'm not counting zinc white as suitable for sfumato). The darks are laid on and then the lights next to them. Then they're gradually blended together with a soft natural fiber brush. This operation can be repeated as many times as necessary to establish the darks and the required lights, continually blending with a soft brush. Working this way provides a great deal of control and do remember to use some sticky medium - it makes blending more tractable.

Bob Consoli

I should have mentioned that when sfumato is done properly that even the brightest lights will take on something of the coloration of the dark you're using. E.g., a golden hue for those using asphaltum and be sure to try the Gamblin transparent reds, oranges, and yellows for this purpose (I have no connection to Gamblin).

Bob Consoli

Hi Bob - thanks for that. I would encourage you to put this information into the article. The article doesn't have to be a summary description. As it gets more comprehensive and accurate, we can rework it so that the opening paragraph gives a quick overview summary before moving on to more detailed discussions of technique, history etc.

An article on zinc white and other pigments would also be very welcome. Since zinc white was invented in the 18th century, I'm guessing that Leonardo only had lead white available. -- Solipsist 17:40, 5 Jan 2005 (UTC)