MATISSE STR 75ML Mineral Blue S2

Name: Mineral Blue (Antique Blue)

Pigment tier: Series 2

Available size: 75ml

Description and colour application from Matisse:

Matisse Mineral Blue unveils a soft grey-blue reminiscent of the subtle tones found in rocks and minerals. While it may not boast the vibrancy of other blues, its understated charm proves invaluable in various artistic scenarios. Categorised alongside its darker counterparts, Paynes Grey and Midnight Blue, it thrives as a cool blue-grey, serving as a gentle hue for mixing purposes. Its usage and colour profile draw parallels to the Renaissance-era Ultramarine Ashes.

Historical Echoes: Ultramarine Ashes Legacy

In times past, Ultramarine Blue was derived from lapis lazuli gemstones through a complex process involving lye extraction. The initial extractions produced vibrant blues, classified as Ultramarine Blue, with a subsequent, less intense extraction resulting in a more muted shade called Ultramarine Ashes. Old masters found this ash colour valuable for stormy skies, misty landscapes, and blending with earth colours to achieve the soft grays found in rocks and shadows on white fabrics.

Embracing Moody Landscapes

Greys and neutrals, prevalent in nature, are scarce among pigments. The 18th-century introduction of mixtures like Paynes Grey addressed the need for depicting moody landscapes, particularly those featuring clouds and rain. Matisse Mineral Blue carries this tradition forward, offering a bluer and lighter alternative to Paynes Grey, reminiscent of the grey-blues observed in the Southern Ocean. Its versatility shines in water-themed paintings and moody landscapes.

Artistic Pairings: A Versatile Palette

Blending Mineral Blue with Yellow Oxide yields greenish greys akin to the leaves of eucalyptus trees, enhancing its value in such natural settings. This moody blue proves especially apt for atmospheric scenes, capturing the essence of various environments with a touch of subdued elegance. Matisse Mineral Blue stands as a testament to the artist's palette, providing a subtle yet essential hue for nuanced and evocative creations.

Chemical Description: Blend Titanium dioxide, Sodium aluminosulphosilicate & Copper phthalocyanine

Pigment Number: PB29 PW6 PB15.3

Lightfastness Rating: ASTM I

Pigment Opacity: Opaque

Paint Opacity: Opaque