Brazilwood Pink Lake

Description

Brazilwood Lake is a natural lake pigment extracted from the heartwood of Caesalpinia echinata (Pernambuco Brazilwood). The wood is simmered to extract its deep red-pink dye, which is then precipitated using alum and chalk to create a stable pigment. This method has been historically used to produce luminous pinks, reds, and purples for painting, manuscript illumination, and textile dyeing.

Brazilwood Lake offers a warm, transparent red-pink with subtle violet undertones, making it highly valued for glazing and layering in watercolor, oil, and tempera. While it is not as permanent as some mineral-based purples, its vibrant and organic qualities make it a unique choice for historical reconstructions and artistic experimentation.

Compared to synthetic pinks, Brazilwood Lake provides a softer, more natural hue that harmonizes beautifully with other plant-based pigments. It is best used in combination with UV-protective mediums or varnishes to enhance longevity.

History

Medieval and Renaissance Periods: Brazilwood was a prized dyestuff in Europe, imported along trade routes from Asia and later from South America. It was used extensively in illuminated manuscripts and painting.

16th to 18th Centuries: The discovery of Pernambuco wood in Brazil led to an increased supply of Brazilwood-derived dyes and lake pigments. It was used in fine art, textiles, and furniture staining.

19th to 20th Centuries: Brazilwood Lake remained a key pigment for textile and paper dyeing, though it was gradually replaced by synthetic dyes.

Modern Use: Today, Brazilwood Lake is favored by conservators, traditional artists, and those seeking historical authenticity in their work.

Health and Safety

Precautions:  
Keep out of reach of children and pets.  
Do not consume.  
Not for cosmetic or food usage.  
Do not spray apply.  
For further health information, contact a poison control center.  
Use care when handling dry pigments and avoid dust formation.  
Use particular caution with fibrous, fine, or toxic pigments.  
Do not eat, drink, or smoke near dry pigments.  
Avoid breathing in pigment dust and use a NIOSH-certified dust respirator with sufficient rating for dry pigment.  
Wash hands immediately after use or handling.  
If dust is likely, always wear protective clothing to keep out of eyes, lungs, and off skin, as well as keep the area ventilated.  
This product may contain chemicals known by the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive harm.  
Warnings and bottle information are abbreviated.

Pigment Information

Pigment Type: Natural Lake Pigment  
Source: Caesalpinia echinata (Brazilwood)  
Country of Origin: South America, Southeast Asia  
Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Oil, Tempera, Acrylic  
Lightfastness: Low to Acceptable (fades with prolonged exposure to light)  
Opacity: High translucence  
Other Names: Sappanwood Lake, Pernambuco Red, Brasilina  
Color Index Code: NR24