Characteristics of tempera paintings include:

Tempera painting is a traditional painting technique that has been used for centuries. Some characteristics of tempera paintings include:

1. Medium Composition:

  - Tempera paint is traditionally composed of pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder medium, often egg yolk. This mixture creates a quick-drying and durable paint.

2. Egg Yolk Binder:

  - The use of egg yolk as a binder in tempera paint contributes to the characteristic smoothness and brilliance of colors. The egg yolk provides a stable emulsion that adheres well to a variety of surfaces.

3. Rapid Drying:

  - Tempera paint dries quickly, which allows for precise and detailed work. Artists often need to work swiftly to blend and layer colors before the paint dries.

4. Opaque and Matte Finish:

  - Tempera paintings typically have an opaque and matte finish. The paint does not have the transparency of oil paints or the glossiness of some acrylic paints.

5. Layering and Glazing:

  - Artists can achieve rich and luminous effects by layering and glazing tempera colors. Thin glazes of color can be applied over dried layers, allowing light to reflect through the layers.

6. Hard Surface Adhesion:

  - Tempera paint adheres well to rigid surfaces, such as wood panels or primed canvas. The surface must be properly prepared with a gesso primer to create a suitable ground for tempera painting.

7. Longevity:

  - Properly executed tempera paintings are known for their longevity and resistance to cracking or yellowing over time. Many medieval and Renaissance artworks were created using tempera.

8. Fine Detail:

  - The quick-drying nature of tempera paint allows artists to achieve fine details and intricate patterns. This is particularly evident in illuminated manuscripts and panel paintings from the medieval and Renaissance periods.

9. Historical Significance:

  - Tempera was widely used in medieval and early Renaissance art before the emergence of oil painting. Iconic works from artists like Giotto and Botticelli were created using tempera.

While tempera painting was widely used historically, it has been largely supplanted by oil painting in more recent art history. However, it still holds a place in contemporary art, with some artists choosing to explore and revive this traditional painting technique.