Cochineal Carmine Genuine Lake Pigment

Description

Cochineal Carmine is a handmade natural single pigment red dye and lake pigment derived from the cochineal insect (Dactylopius coccus), which feeds on the prickly pear cactus. The pigment is extracted from the dried bodies of these insects through a process of boiling and precipitation with alum. This method yields a vibrant magenta color that has been prized for centuries in textiles, manuscript illumination, and fine art.

Cochineal Carmine produces a deep, rich magenta with a slightly bluish undertone, offering exceptional transparency and vibrancy. It is highly valued for its staining ability and smooth application in watercolor, ink, and textile dyeing. While it has excellent color intensity, its lightfastness can vary depending on the mordant and medium used. Properly prepared, it remains a luminous and highly sought after natural red.

History

Cochineal has been used as a dye since ancient times, with early evidence of its use in Mesoamerican cultures such as the Aztecs and Mayans, who regarded it as a sacred pigment. When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they quickly recognized its value and began exporting it to Europe, where it became one of the most important red dyes of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. In the pictured artwork by Titian, 'Bacchus and Ariadne', Carmine lake is used for the beautiful flowing drapery of Bacchus.

Carmine was used extensively in manuscript illumination, textiles, and fine art painting, providing a brilliant red unmatched by most other natural dyes. It was favored by artists for its glowing, transparent qualities, particularly in watercolor and tempera. During the 18th and 19th centuries, it became a crucial pigment in cosmetics, food coloring, and medicine.

With the rise of synthetic dyes in the 20th century, cochineal production declined, but it remains in use today for traditional textile dyeing, historical restoration, and fine art applications. Modern interest in natural pigments and sustainable dyes has also revived its importance in certain industries.

Pigment Information

Source: Cochineal insects (Dactylopius coccus), laked with alum
Origin: Handmade in house using traditional dyeing methods; cochineal sourced from Peru
Dye Type: Natural (Organic) from Dactylopius coccus (Cochineal Insect)
Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Ink, Textile Dyeing, Tempera
Lightfastness: Good (but varies with mordant and medium)
Opacity: High translucence
Other Names: Carmine Lake, Natural Red 4, Crimson Lake
Color Index Code: NR4
Image: 'Bacchus and Ariadne' by Titian from the National Gallery

Health and Safety

• For art use only. Not for cosmetic, food or children's use.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working.
• Avoid creating or breathing dust. Work in a ventilated area and wear a NIOSH approved dust respirator (P100 or better) when handling dry pigment.
• Wear gloves and eye protection. Wash hands and work surfaces after use, and never rinse pigment into drains.
• Do not spray apply, sand or burn.
• If swallowed or if you feel unwell, contact a poison control center (U.S. 1-800-222-1222) or a doctor.
• Safety Data Sheet available on request.