Purpurissum

Description

Purpurissum is our exquisitely hand-crafted oil paint made with an extremely concentrated, high-quality single source pigment. Every tube is meticulously hand mulled, filled, and labeled using only pure cold-pressed walnut oil (linseed oil available upon request) and the maximum amount of hand-ground and richly textured pigment.

Purpurissum is one of the rarest and most historically significant purple pigment that dates back to antiquity. Derived through the traditional method of the secretions of Mediterranean sea snails (Murex brandaris and Murex trunculus), this legendary color—also known as Tyrian Purple—was reserved for royalty, high priests, and imperial use due to its extreme cost and powerful symbolism. Our Purpurissum watercolor continues that legacy, made from the exact recipe described by Pliny using True Tyrian to create the iconic deep purple hue. This color flows with a soft granulation and deep, warm undertones, perfect for sacred art, illuminated manuscripts, and regal palettes. Rich, contemplative, and timeless, Purpurissum is more than a color—it's a story of ancient power and art.

Key Features

Single Source Pigment: Each product features one pure pigment, chosen for its exceptional quality.

Handmade Artisanal Process: Crafted in small batches, our oil paints are hand mulled on a marble slab and hand filled in aluminum tubes to preserve the integrity of the pigment.

Maximum Pigment Load: Designed to provide maximum color saturation, our formula contains no artificial additives or fillers

Recommended Use: Best used with oil mediums to achieve optimal fluidity.

Pigment Information

Pigment Type: Organic animal-derived dye (true Tyrian Purple)

Source: Extracted from Murex trunculus sea snails

Origin: South France

Lightfastness: Excellent

Opacity: Semi-transparent with minimal granulation

Other Names: Tyrian Purple, Imperial Purple, Phoenician Red, Murex Dye

Color Index Code: NV1

Production Process

Our oil paints are created with passion and precision. The pigment is carefully hand mulled and then mixed with pure cold-pressed walnut oil, ensuring an exceptionally concentrated and vibrant product. The entire process is carried out by hand—from mixing and mulling to filling and labeling—so you can be confident in the artisanal quality of every tube.

Usage & Care

Please store in a secure area away from children and pets, and dispose of any waste in an environmentally friendly manner in accordance with all local, state, and national regulations.

If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.