Arzica Weld Light Lake

Description
Arzica is a natural lake pigment derived from the yellow-flowering plant Reseda luteola, commonly known as weld. It is processed through traditional methods, where the plant is boiled to extract its vibrant yellow dye, which is then precipitated onto an substrate of alum to form a stable pigment. This process has been used for centuries to create bright, durable yellows in painting and textile dyeing.

Arzica exhibits a clear, luminous yellow with slight green undertones, making it an excellent choice for glazing, botanical painting, and historical reconstructions. It is highly transparent, allowing for delicate layering effects, and is particularly well-suited to watercolor and tempera applications. Unlike synthetic yellows, weld lake offers a uniquely organic warmth that blends harmoniously with other natural earth pigments.

History
Ancient and Classical Periods: Weld was one of the oldest known yellow dyes, widely used in Egyptian, Greek, and Roman textiles and artwork. Its vibrant color made it highly desirable for illuminated manuscripts and frescoes.

Medieval to Renaissance Europe: European artists and manuscript illuminators favored weld for its bright and stable yellow hues. It was a key component of medieval color palettes.

17th to 19th Centuries: Weld lake pigments continued to be used in fine art and textile dyeing, particularly in France and Italy. It remained a popular alternative to more expensive yellow pigments such as orpiment.

Modern Use: While synthetic yellows have largely replaced plant-based lake pigments, weld lake remains valued by historical artists and conservators seeking authentic reproduction materials.

Pigment Information
Pigment Type: Natural Lake Pigment  
Source: Reseda luteola (weld plant)  
Country of Origin: Europe  
Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Oil, Tempera, Acrylic  
Lightfastness: Good to Acceptable (can fade with prolonged exposure to strong light)  
Opacity: High translucence  
Other Names: Weld Yellow, Lutum Yellow, Wild Mignonette Lake
Color Index Code: PY2