Medieval Studio Workshop

This workshop is an introduction to traditional pigments and painting materials following historical sources like Cennino Cennini and using practical applications. We will discuss inorganic mineral pigments and organic ingredients and their relation to the landscape and the traditions of Italian cooking. 

The course will be conducted in English and Italian. All materials will be provided. 

Participants will take home a homemade pen, ink, and a small project on sheep parchment. 

Part 1: The Story of Black and White

This workshop will focus on the manufacture and use of the primary black and white pigments used throughout history: ivory black, vine black, lamp black, and iron gall and sepia inks. 

3 hours introductory session with lunch (Saturday 10-14), 3 hours tools and techniques workshop (Sunday (10-13)

Saturday, April 10: Making (50 euro, plus 25 Lunch)

10 am General introduction to organic and inorganic pigments

11 am Black and white inks and pigments

11 am Coffee break

11:30 am Making quill pens and writing and drawing exercises

Project: letter to self, message in a bottle 

1 pm. Lunch based on black and white: Risotto nero di sepia, bread, cheese, olives

Sunday, April 11: Use (50 euro)

10 am Historic use and contemporary applications

10: 30 am Black inks, oak gall and pomegranate

11 am break

11:30 Making Egg tempera

Painting exercises in tempera and black pigments