Revised edition of a diploma work from 1977 by the author at the Academy of Fine Arts, Vienna. The history of bismuth, its preparation, and properties are first referred to. Then the tradition of bismuth painting, mainly in Germany (Nuremberg), is described from historic sources and secondary literature. Discussion of technique, pigments, and grounds close the theoretical section. The practical report which follows describes the analyses of four decorated small chests using bismuth, whose cleaning and state of preservation are described. Reports of the author's experiments with this technique and the methods for retouching are included.