Rublev Colours German Vine Black is a distinctive natural black earth pigment from Germany, valued for its moderate, slightly cool grey character. Unlike vine charcoal blacks, this pigment is mineral based and dominated by magnetite with accessory goethite and natural clays, giving it a softer, cleaner look that is ideal for portraits and traditional palettes.
German Vine Black is especially useful for greying flesh tones without making them look dirty. It creates gentle, controllable neutrals, supports atmospheric depth, and provides a warm to cool balance that sits naturally beside earth colours. Because it is an earth pigment, it wets easily, grinds effortlessly in both oil and water, and is compatible with all pigments across oil, tempera, watercolour, acrylic, and fresco techniques.
Key features
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Natural mineral black earth from Germany, magnetite based
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Colour Index PBk11, permanent and lightfast (ASTM I)
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Moderate, slightly cool grey undertone for clean neutral mixing
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Excellent for portraits, flesh tones, shadows, and soft greys
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Easy wetting and smooth grinding in oil or water
Safety note: Considered low hazard, but avoid inhaling dry pigment dust. Use a mask and good ventilation when handling powder.
