Kiefer, Anselm
AURORA
Author: Anselm Kiefer
Title : Aurora
Place: France
Date : 2015-2016
Material : canvas , oil , acrylic, emulsion, shellac , lead
Dimensions : 280 × 380 × 12cm
Acquisition date :
Entered the Hermitage in 2018 ;
acquired from the legal entity
Inventory Number : КСИ-1711
Category : Painting
Collection: Contemporary Art
Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the lac bug , specifically the female of the species Kerria lacca.
It is harvested mainly in India and Thailand. Shellac had been used historically as a wood finish and varnish due to its excellent adhisive and protective properties.
It is also used in various other applications including food glazes, pharmaceuticals ( as a coating for tablets), and even in certain types of cosmetics.
In woodworking , Shellac is prized for its ability to create a smooth, glossy finish that enhances the natural beauty of wood. It dries quickly and can easily applied with a brush or cloth.
Shellac is soluble in alcohol , which makes it versatile for different methods of application and for blending different shades.
In art, shellac is used as a traditional medium primarily for making inks and paints. It serves as a binder that helps pigments adhere to surfaces such as paper, canvas , or wood.
Shellac- based inks are known for their vibrant colors and durability. Additionally artists use shellac as a varnish to protect finished artworks, providing a glosssy and protective layer.
#LacBug#KerriaLacca