<P> Early works were still panel paintings on wood , but around the end of the 15th century canvas became more popular as the support , as it was cheaper , easier to transport , allowed larger works , and did not require complicated preliminary layers of gesso ( a fine type of plaster ) . Venice , where sail - canvas was easily available , was a leader in the move to canvas . Small cabinet paintings were also made on metal , especially copper plates . These supports were more expensive but very firm , allowing intricately fine detail . Often printing plates from printmaking were reused for this purpose . The popularity of oil spread through Italy from the North , starting in Venice in the late 15th century . By 1540 , the previous method for painting on panel ( tempera ) had become all but extinct , although Italians continued to use chalk - based fresco for wall paintings , which was less successful and durable in damper northern climates . </P>
<P> Early works were still panel paintings on wood , but around the end of the 15th century canvas became more popular as the support , as it was cheaper , easier to transport , allowed larger works , and did not require complicated preliminary layers of gesso ( a fine type of plaster ) . Venice , where sail - canvas was easily available , was a leader in the move to canvas . Small cabinet paintings were also made on metal , especially copper plates . These supports were more expensive but very firm , allowing intricately fine detail . Often printing plates from printmaking were reused for this purpose . The popularity of oil spread through Italy from the North , starting in Venice in the late 15th century . By 1540 , the previous method for painting on panel ( tempera ) had become all but extinct , although Italians continued to use chalk - based fresco for wall paintings , which was less successful and durable in damper northern climates . </P>
oil painting has been the medium of choice for painter since
oil painting has been the medium of choice for painter since
the late 15th century
the late 15th century