Why were frescoes considered a luxurious form of decoration during the Renaissance?

Frescoes were considered a luxurious form of decoration during the Renaissance primarily because they required expensive materials and skilled labor. The process of creating frescoes involves applying pigment to freshly laid wet plaster, which demands a high level of artistry and technical skill. Artists who specialized in this medium often underwent extensive training, making their work highly valued and exclusive.

Additionally, the materials used for frescoes, such as high-quality pigments and lime plaster, were not readily accessible to everyone, further contributing to their luxury status. The difficulty of the technique itself, which includes the need for precision and a deep understanding of color and composition that would endure through time as the plaster dries, means that only the most proficient artists could successfully execute these works. Therefore, the labor-intensive and costly nature of fresco creation firmly established it as a high-end decorative choice in Renaissance interiors.