The Presentation in the Temple 1342

Ambrogio Lorenzetti made this painting of the Presentation in the Temple, probably in the 1340s, using tempera on wood. The qualities of tempera – a fast-drying medium made from pigment mixed with egg yolk – invite precision. Note the exquisite detail in the architectural elements that frame the scene. Lorenzetti has rendered the columns and arches to create the illusion of depth, enhancing the narrative's solemnity. The use of gold leaf, applied meticulously to create halos and embellishments, further elevates the work. Tempera allowed Lorenzetti to achieve fine details and vibrant colors. This choice of materials connects Lorenzetti to a lineage of panel painting that prioritizes skilled craftsmanship. Each brushstroke reflects a commitment to both material understanding and storytelling. The use of tempera and gold leaf, combined with Lorenzetti’s innovative spatial composition, challenges the distinction between craft and fine art.