Students at the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology have successfully reproduced the masterpiece of Sandro Botticelli using tempera, also known as egg tempera, a special method of painting.
With the help of a professor, Zhang Yue, the students spent a full semester on their unusual project. Tempera painting requires a combination of water, egg yolk and mineral pigments. It can yield paintings in possession of a special luster, which stands out against the smooth, white surface. By adjusting the ratio of yolk, water, oil and resin, tempera allows extremely detailed and accurate lines. Tempera paintings can also better preserve the luster and color of portraits.