Purpurissum Tyrian Purple Oil Paint

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 pure cold pressed walnut oil (linseed oil available upon request), less than 1% fumed silica as a stabilizer, and food grade lecithin as a natural wetting agent. Every paint is single pigment with maximum concentration and no fillers or extenders.

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 oil paint 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.

Handmade Artisanal Process: Crafted in small batches, our oil paints are hand mulled on a stone 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 fillers or extenders.

Recommended Use: Use straight from the tube or thin with oil mediums, solvents, waxes, or oils for different textures, levels of fluidity, finishes, and handling properties.

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
Image: Various by Inge Boesken Kanold

Production Process

Our oil paints are carefully hand mulled and 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 through our historic processes.

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.

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 skin contact and wash hands after use. Wipe brushes and palettes clean before rinsing, and never pour paint waste down drains. Do not spray apply, sand dried paint 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.