Lithopone White Pigment

Lithopone White is a handmade single pigment made from a co precipitated mixture of zinc sulfide and barium sulfate. It produces a clean, bright, neutral white with good covering power, more opaque than chalk or baryte and softer than titanium white. It has a smooth, fine texture and good brushability in both water based and oil binders.

In use, Lithopone gives a reliable, versatile white for tints, highlights and grounds in watercolor, gouache, tempera, casein and oil. It mixes well with most pigments and has moderate tinting strength. Because it contains zinc sulfide, it should not be mixed with lead or copper based pigments, which can darken. Modern lithopone is more lightfast, though older types could grey in strong sunlight.

History

Lithopone was patented in 1874 by John Bryson Orr in Scotland and was sold as Orr's White. It quickly became one of the most widely used white pigments in house paints, linoleum and coatings, valued as a cheaper, non toxic alternative to lead white. Early lithopone tended to darken in sunlight, a problem solved in the early 20th century. It remained a major white until titanium white took over in the mid 20th century.

Pigment Information

Pigment Type: Synthetic (Inorganic) zinc sulfide and barium sulfate
Source: Zinc sulfide and barium sulfate co precipitated and calcined
Origin: U.S.A.
Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Gouache, Tempera, Casein, Oil, Encaustic, Acrylic
Lightfastness: Excellent
Opacity: Semi-opaque to opaque
Other Names: Orr's White, Charlton White, Zinc Sulfide White, Griffith's White
Color Index Code: PW5

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.

Caution: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects. Never rinse brushes or palettes into drains; wipe them clean and dispose of the waste as household hazardous waste.