Organic – Alizarin Crimson is the oldest synthetic, organic lake introduced in 1868, and the only lake of the coal-tar lake range to have survived in use until the present.
Its clarity and subtly beautiful bluish undertones are unique; since its introduction, Portrait Artists prize its range of cool, rather smoky hues, which are well suited for Caucasian tones.
Before the end of the 19th-century, other Lakes were found too impermanent, and some Amerian authorities frown on Alizarin because its lightfastness (II-III on the ASTM scale, although still good) doesn’t match that of more recent organic red pigments.
If you have concerns about using Alizarin Crimson, use Alizarin Claret or try mixing transparent oxide red with magenta for “look-alike” oil paint.
Widely recognised as one of the best Oil Colour Paints available, thanks to the high pigment levels used in their manufacture they give strong colours that are vibrant and true providing great coverage and highly resistant to fading.
Michael Harding Oil paints are made by hand in Wales, adopting techniques dating back to the days of the Old Masters.
A popular Artist in his own right Michael Harding states "As an artist and painter I wanted to create colours that were true and vibrant, and paint which was beautiful and durable"
The paints are described as having a buttery, creamy texture that are easy to handle and their texture is easily manipulated.
