Imprimatura - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Imprimatura is a thin, transparent layer of paint, usually in a neutral tone, applied to a canvas as an initial stain to establish tonal harmony and prepare the surface for further painting.
Definition:
A thin, transparent initial layer of paint or stain applied to a canvas or panel as a base.
Synonyms:
underpainting, base coat, ground layer
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
blank canvas, unfinished surface
Common Collocations:
apply imprimatura, use imprimatura, layer over imprimatura
Derivatives:
imprimaturo (rare), imprimaturas (plural)
Usage Tips:
Use imprimatura to tone the canvas and establish a mid-tone before detailed painting begins.
Common Phrases:
"toned ground, " "underpainting layer, " "base color"
Etymology:
From Italian "imprimatura," meaning "first layer of paint," derived from Latin "imprimere" (to press into).
Examples:
- 1. The artist applied an imprimatura to prepare the canvas.
- 2. Imprimatura helps unify the painting’s tonal values.
- 3. She chose a warm ochre for her imprimatura layer.
- 4. Without imprimatura, the colors appeared too stark on the white canvas.