Nicosia Burnt Umber WN Pigment

This exceptional, natural mineral pigment from Cyprus has been roasted to create a dark, warm to neutral brown color that's highly versatile and ideal for use in tempera, oil, and watercolor mediums. Obtained from certain natural clays colored by the oxides of iron and manganese, our Nicosia Burnt Umber WN is a top-quality choice for artists seeking to add depth and richness to their work.

With a rich history dating back to prehistoric times, umber has been a prized pigment among artists for centuries. The name "umber" is derived from the Italian word "ombra," meaning "shadow," due to its utility in creating dark, shadowy areas in paintings. Over time, the term "burnt umber" emerged to describe the pigment's calcination process, which enhances its color and properties.

Today, our Nicosia Burnt Umber WN remains a popular choice among artists, offering a unique blend of high tinting strength and good covering power. When heated, the pigment undergoes a characteristic change in color, darkening and intensifying in tone. This ability to transform under heat makes burnt umber a fascinating and dynamic material to work with.

As a natural, inorganic pigment, our Nicosia Burnt Umber WN is non-toxic and safe to use, although care should be taken to avoid inhaling the dry powder. Manganese, a constituent of umber, is moderately toxic, so handling the pigment with care is essential.

Rublev Colours, a trusted brand in the art world, offers this exceptional pigment in a finely ground, reddish-brown masstone with warm undertones. With its excellent tinting strength and good covering power, this burnt umber is an ideal choice for artists seeking to add warmth, depth, and character to their work. Whether used in tempera, oil, or watercolor, our Nicosia Burnt Umber WN is sure to inspire and delight.