The Raising of Lazarus 1497

Benozzo Gozzoli created this panel painting, The Raising of Lazarus, in the 15th century using tempera on wood. Tempera is made by binding pigment with egg yolk, a quick-drying medium that allows for precise detail. Look closely at the drapery and landscape. Notice how the fine brushstrokes and layering of color create depth and texture. The wood panel itself would have been carefully prepared, likely with gesso, a white ground that provides a smooth surface for painting. The application of gold leaf, though subtle here, was a common practice to signify divinity. The choice of materials was not merely aesthetic; it was deeply connected to the social and religious context of the time. Tempera paintings like this were commissioned by wealthy patrons as acts of devotion. The artist's skill in manipulating these materials, transforming them into scenes of biblical narrative, underscored the church's power and influence. In the end, understanding the materials and processes used by Gozzoli helps us see this artwork as more than just an image. It’s a product of its time, reflecting the values, beliefs, and technologies of Renaissance society.