Why is synthetic resin preferable to natural resin
Synthetic resin will not yellow, crack, or dissolve in liquid
Synthetic resin will not yellow, obscure, or damage the painting
Synthetic resin will not destroy paint pigment, crack, or yellow the painting
Synthetic resin will not damage the canvas, dissolve in liquid, or muddy the painting
- Synthetic resin generally has better durability and resistance to aging compared to natural resin. It is less likely to yellow, crack, or dissolve in liquid over time, making it more suitable for long-term preservation of paintings.
- Natural resin, such as damar or mastic, tends to yellow and darken with age, potentially altering the appearance of the painting. Synthetic resin, on the other hand, does not yellow or obscure the painting, helping to maintain its original color and clarity.
- Natural resin can sometimes damage the paint pigment, causing it to become brittle or discolored over time. Synthetic resin, however, does not have this issue and helps to preserve the integrity of the paint layer.
- Natural resin, especially when dissolved in solvents, can have a negative impact on the canvas, potentially weakening or degrading its fibers. Synthetic resin, being less reactive, is less likely to damage the canvas.
- Synthetic resin also offers more control over the final appearance of the painting, as it can be formulated to have specific properties and characteristics, such as matte or glossy finishes, without compromising its stability.