Our Nicosia Burnt Umber WW is a natural mineral pigment from Cyprus, carefully roasted to produce a rich, dark reddish-brown color. This exquisite pigment is a staple in the world of art, used in tempera, oil, and watercolor mediums to create stunning, earthy tones. The pigment is derived from natural clays colored by the oxides of iron and manganese, giving it a unique and distinctive hue.

As an earth pigment, our Nicosia Burnt Umber WW is a treasure trove of artistic possibilities. The roasted pigment is finely ground, resulting in a reddish-brown masstone with warm undertones, perfect for adding depth and warmth to any artwork. With an excellent tinting strength and good covering power, this pigment is a joy to work with.

The history of umber stretches back to prehistoric times, with the name "umber" first appearing in the 16th century. The pigment was originally extracted from natural clays in northern Italy, but today, Cyprus is the primary source of this precious earth pigment. Our Nicosia Burnt Umber WW is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of art, a reminder of the beauty and craftsmanship of the past.

As a natural iron oxide pigment, our umber is characterized by its ability to change color when heated. When roasted, the hydrated iron oxide gives up water, resulting in a darker, more intense shade. This unique property makes our Nicosia Burnt Umber WW an exciting and versatile pigment to work with.

In terms of permanence and compatibility, our umber does not react with other pigments and is suitable for use in fresco, oil, tempera, and watercolors. It is considered to be permanent with medium to excellent tinting strength and high opacity, making it an excellent choice for artists seeking to create lasting works of art.

When it comes to oil absorption and grinding, our umber moderately absorbs oil, with an oil absorption ratio of 45-55 parts by weight of linseed oil to 100 parts by weight of pigment. This means that our umber hastens the drying of oil and forms a good, flexible film, making it an ideal choice for oil-based artworks.

As with all art supplies, it is essential to handle our Nicosia Burnt Umber WW with care. While considered non-toxic, the manganese content of the pigment can be moderately toxic, so artists should take necessary precautions when handling the dry powder pigment to avoid inhaling the dust.

With its rich history, unique characteristics, and versatility, our Nicosia Burnt Umber WW is an exceptional addition to any artist's palette. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring artist, this exquisite pigment is sure to inspire and delight.