Burnt umber

Burnt Umber is a dark brown, natural pigment that is commonly used in painting and other art forms. It is derived from natural earths and is known for its warm, rich color.

History

The use of burnt umber dates back to prehistoric times, when it was used in cave paintings. It was also used by the ancient Egyptians in their wall paintings and by the Romans in their frescoes. In the Middle Ages, it was a popular pigment for the creation of illuminated manuscripts.

Composition

Burnt umber is composed of iron oxides and manganese oxides. The iron oxides give it its brown color, while the manganese oxides contribute to its warmth. When heated, the color becomes more intense, hence the term "burnt" umber.

Use in Art

In art, burnt umber is valued for its transparency and its ability to create a range of warm, earthy tones. It is often used in oil painting, where it can be mixed with other colors to create a variety of shades and hues. It is also used in watercolor painting, pastel drawing, and other art forms.

Production

The production of burnt umber involves the heating of raw umber, a naturally occurring earth pigment, to a high temperature. This process, known as calcination, changes the chemical structure of the pigment and intensifies its color.

Health and Safety

Like all pigments, burnt umber should be handled with care. While it is not considered toxic, it can cause irritation if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes, or if it is inhaled.

See Also

• Raw umber
• Sienna
• Ochre
• Pigment
• Oil painting
• Watercolor painting