seccomaalauksia

Seccomaalauksia refers to a specific technique of wall painting, primarily found in the Mediterranean region and dating back to ancient times. The term itself is of Italian origin, literally translating to "dry painting." This distinguishes it from fresco painting, which is executed on wet plaster. In seccomaalauksia, pigments are applied to a dry plaster surface, often using a binder such as egg yolk, glue, or milk. This method allows for greater detail and a wider range of colors compared to true fresco, as the artist is not limited by the rapid drying time of wet plaster.

The technique was widely used in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, adorning palaces, tombs, and public buildings. Examples can be found in Pompeii and Herculaneum, where the dry conditions have preserved these paintings remarkably well. Seccomaalauksia offered artists the flexibility to rework areas and achieve subtle gradations of tone. However, because the pigments are not chemically bonded to the plaster in the same way as in fresco, secco paintings are generally more susceptible to decay and damage over time, especially in humid environments. Despite this, surviving examples provide invaluable insights into the artistic styles, religious beliefs, and daily life of the ancient world. The practice also influenced later mural painting traditions throughout Europe.