Distemper

DEFINITION

A term for bulk or wall paints and not to be confused with fresco, &#39;distemper&#39; is prepared from water, powder colors, and simple glue or casein binders and is often used for stage scenery or decoration when permanence is not important. The term is not used in the United States where equivalents are Calcimine and Scenic colours. Sources: Kimberley Reynolds and Richard Seddon, "Illustrated Dictionary of Art Terms"; Ralph Mayer, "A Dictionary of Art Terms and Techniques" <br><br>A blend of glue, chalk and water-based paint, used mostly for murals and posters.<br><br>A water-soluble paint using egg-yolk or glue size as a binder. Used mostly for flat indoor wall decoration.Example of work produced with distemper: Andrea Mantegna (Italian, 1495-1505), Adoration of the Magi, distemper on linen, stretcher size: 21 1/2 x 27 3/8 inches (54.6 x 69.2 cm), J. Paul Getty Museum, Malibu, CA. See Renaissance.Also see gouache and tempera.