While oil paint had been used before the Northern Renaissance, it was the Flemish painters, particularly Jan van Eyck, who perfected the technique and made it the dominant medium for painting in the region.
Here's why oil paint was so revolutionary for Flemish artists:
* Greater detail and realism: Oil paint allowed for a much smoother and more detailed finish compared to the tempera paint that was traditionally used. This enabled artists to depict incredibly realistic textures, light, and shadow.
* Longer drying time: Oil paint dries slowly, allowing for more time to blend colors and make adjustments. This allowed for the creation of subtle gradations and nuanced colors, contributing to the realism of the works.
* Vibrant and luminous colors: Oil paint can be mixed with pigments to create a wide range of vibrant and luminous colors. Flemish artists were able to create a sense of depth and richness in their paintings, particularly in the rendering of skin tones and precious materials.
Overall, the adoption of oil paint was a significant factor in the rise of the Flemish school of painting and its influence on art history.