Arricciato

/ˌɑːrɪˈtʃɑːtoʊ/ noun

Definition

The second preparatory layer of coarse, textured plaster applied to a wall before creating a fresco.

Etymology

Italian, from 'ricciuto' (curly, textured), derived from Latin 'riccius.' The name describes the rough, crimped surface that was deliberately textured to provide mechanical grip for the final paint layer.

Kelly Says

The arricciato layer seems humble, but it's literally the foundation of fresco art—without its rough texture, the delicate intonaco layer on top would have no grip, and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel would have fallen apart long ago.

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