SINOPIA Meaning and
Definition
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Sinopia is a term that derives from the Italian word "sinopia" and refers to a reddish-brown pigment commonly used in fresco painting. It is typically made from a combination of earth pigments, such as red ochre or iron oxide, mixed with water. This pigment possesses a distinct reddish hue, resembling the color of terracotta or brick.
In Renaissance art, sinopia played a crucial role in the preparatory stages of fresco painting. Artists would apply sinopia to the wall as an initial outline or underdrawing, known as the sinopia drawing. This drawing served as a guide for the eventual painting, indicating the placement of figures, architectural elements, and other details. Once the sinopia drawing was completed, the artist would transfer it onto the wet plaster, called intonaco, by using a perforated cartoon, a technique known as pouncing. The sinopia pigment would often remain visible beneath the final layers of paint, adding depth and richness to the artwork.
Apart from its practical use, sinopia also holds historical and cultural significance. It is named after Sinope, a city in ancient Turkey where this pigment was believed to have originated. Sinopia has been used extensively throughout the centuries in various artistic traditions worldwide, including ancient Greek and Roman frescoes, Byzantine mosaics, and Renaissance murals. Today, sinopia continues to be appreciated for its distinct color and its contribution to the artistic heritage of the past.
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A fine red pigment, much used by the ancients.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SINOPIA
- ainopia
- zinopia
- xinopia
- dinopia
- einopia
- winopia
- sunopia
- sjnopia
- sknopia
- sonopia
- s9nopia
- s8nopia
- sibopia
- simopia
- sijopia
- sihopia
- sinipia
- sino0ia
- sinoxia
- sinoqia
Etymology of SINOPIA
The word "sinopia" comes from Italian "sinopia" and ultimately from Greek "synōpía" (συνωπία). In ancient Greece, sinopia referred to a reddish-brown pigment that was used in wall paintings. In Italian Renaissance painting, "sinopia" also denoted a preparatory drawing or sketch made on the wall in reddish-brown paint before the final fresco was executed. The term "sinopia" is thought to derive from the Greek words "syn-" (together) and "ōps" (face, appearance), possibly indicating the notion of combining various pigments to create the desired color.
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