Realgar yellow

Realgar yellow is a natural pigment powder in a muted mustard yellow for egg tempera, watercolor, gouache, acrylic and oil. It is a soft, earthy yellow for painters, icon painters and restorers who work with historical palettes. Treat it as a toxic pigment and read the safety notes before use.

Key facts

• Color: muted mustard yellow
• Pigment type: Natural pigment
• Suitable for: oil, acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor, gouache
• Not recommended for: mixtures with lead white and red lead
• Packaging: 25 g jar · 1 kg bag

How to use

Wet the powder with a few drops of binder first to keep dust down, then mull small amounts with a palette knife or glass muller: egg yolk for tempera, gum arabic for watercolor and gouache, acrylic medium, or linseed oil. Do not mix it with lead white or red lead, because undesirable reactions are possible. Make a test swatch in your medium before starting larger work, since the shade and covering power change with the binder. Protect finished work from strong light and damp.

About realgar

The name realgar comes from the Arabic rahj al-ghar, "powder of the mine". Realgar and orpiment often occur together in nature, and both were traded as pigments in the Roman Empire. In China realgar was called "masculine yellow" and orpiment "feminine yellow". Realgar is best known as an orange-red mineral; in old paintings and manuscripts it often appears yellow, because long exposure to light changes its color.

Safety

Treat it as a toxic pigment, like other historical pigments sold under the name realgar: never sand dried paint or heat the powder, and keep it away from food. Handle dry pigment with care: avoid breathing the dust and contact with eyes. Wear a dust mask (FFP2/N95) and gloves when working with the powder, work in a well-ventilated area and wipe up spills with a damp cloth. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working; wash your hands afterwards. Keep away from children and pets. For artistic and technical use only — not for cosmetics, food or tattoos.

FAQ

Is Realgar yellow the same as orpiment?

No. Orpiment is a separate pigment in our range, a bright lemon to golden yellow. Realgar yellow is a softer, muted mustard yellow.

Which binders work best?

Egg tempera, watercolor, gouache, acrylic and oil. Make a test swatch first, because the shade and covering power change with the binder.

Is it toxic?

Treat it as toxic: avoid dust and skin contact, never heat it, and keep it away from children and pets.