Black Walnut Deep Lake

Description

Black Walnut Deep Lake is a rich, dark brown pigment created by extracting the natural dye from the husks of the black walnut tree (Juglans nigra) and fixing it to a mineral substrate to form a permanent lake pigment. The result is a deep, earthy brown with subtle warmth, capable of producing transparent glazes or dense, opaque passages depending on application.

Unlike synthetic browns, this natural botanical lake retains a soft, organic complexity, shifting slightly between golden-brown and umber tones depending on concentration and medium. It is especially well-suited for historical palettes, botanical illustration, and naturalistic painting.

History

Walnut husks have been used since antiquity as both a dye and pigment source. In Europe, the Middle East, and North America, walnut husk extracts were employed to dye textiles, leather, and inks, producing deep browns with excellent affinity for fibers and parchment.

As a lake pigment, black walnut was valued for manuscript illumination, drawing inks, and painting, particularly where organic, warm browns were needed. Artists of the Renaissance and Baroque periods sometimes used walnut inks alongside iron gall inks, and the pigment appeared in decorative arts as well.

Though less common in industrial palettes today, black walnut lake continues to be produced by artisan pigment makers for historical authenticity and eco-conscious artistry.

Pigment Information

Pigment Type: Organic Botanical Lake Pigment

Source: Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) husks

Color: Deep warm brown, shifting toward umber tones

Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Tempera, Gouache, Ink, Mixed Media (not recommended for oil due to organic solubility)

Lightfastness: Moderate (organic lakes are less permanent than mineral browns; best for protected works)

Opacity: Transparent

Other Names: Walnut Lake, Walnut Brown, Noyer Lake

Color Index Code: N/A