Canvas
A strong cloth used by artists to paint on, usually made from cotton or linen.
What is it?
Canvas is a fabric that artists stretch over a wooden frame to create a surface for painting. It became popular in the 1500s because it is lightweight and durable. Artists can paint on canvas with oil paints, acrylics, or other media. Many famous paintings, including Bernardo Strozzi's "Saint Lawrence Displaying the Treasures of the Church," were painted on canvas. Canvas allows artists to create large paintings that can be rolled up for transport.
Why it matters
Canvas is one of the most common supports for painting. Understanding canvas helps you know how paintings are made and why they last.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more paintings on canvas.