Manganese Blue (Hue) | Matisse Studio acrylic paint

Manganese Blue (Hue) | Matisse Studio acrylic paint

Matisse Studio Manganese Blue (Hue) is a dazzling azure colour inspired by the historic Manganese Blue, a synthetic green-blue pigment first developed in 1907. Originally used commercial applications as a cement colourant—notably for swimming pools—the pigment was created through a reaction where a potash permanganate solution interacts with baryta-water. This initially produces a violet mixture that eventually becomes colourless, leaving behind a striking blue precipitate. Its application in art materials emerged in the mid 1930s, when IG Farbenindustries AG patented the pigment and made the colour commercially available. Despite/though being relatively cheap to produce, historical manganese blue never gained widespread traction due to its low tinting strength and potential toxicity/hazardous nature. By the 1990s, production of the pigment had ceased almost entirely, as cheaper pigments like cobalt and phthalocyanine drove demand down.

Despite these setbacks, the unique chromatic properties of the pigment were still sought after, prompting expert colourmakers like Matisse to revitalise manganese blue, developing a beautiful, blended hue that rivals the original colour. Now, artists who seek the clarity and intensity of this once-forgotten pigment are offered a safe, non-toxic alternative in Matisse Studio Manganese Blue Hue, flawlessly matching the vivid mass tone and undertones of the historical colour. While Matisse still produces small quantities of the original manganese blue pigment to order, this contemporary analogue is a wonderful addition to any artists palette. Mix with burnt umber to create luscious dark teals that proliferate into gorgeous grey-blue turquoise tones with the addition of titanium white. When combined with Lemon Yellow, lively green apple hues emerge, painting out into soft seafoam, algae and mint colours with the addition of titanium white—wonderfully suited to evocative coastal scenes. 

Safety Data Sheet for Matisse STUDIO Manganese Blue (Hue) (SDS)

To view or download a copy SDS, please  CLICK HERE * (271kb)  
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