When did canvas become the most popular painting surface for oils?

Canvas became the most popular painting surface for oils after the 17th century due to several factors that contributed to its widespread adoption by artists. Before this period, wooden panels were primarily used, but canvas offered numerous advantages that appealed to painters.

Canvas is lightweight, making it easier to transport and display works of art. It also provided a larger format for artists to explore, allowing them to create more expansive and dynamic compositions. Additionally, the texture of canvas could be adjusted by choosing different types of fabric or treatments, allowing for flexibility in technique and style.

The shift began during the Renaissance, where artists in Italy started to experiment with canvas, but it gained traction across Europe in the 17th century, particularly in regions such as the Netherlands and France. The growing popularity of oil paints, combined with the increasing availability of pre-stretched and primed canvas, cemented its status as the preferred medium for oil painting. This transition is significant as it marked a turning point in the methods and materials used by artists, setting the stage for the development of modern painting practices.