Aureolin, a radiant and luminous pigment also known as Cobalt Yellow or Potassium Cobaltinitrite, has graced the palettes of artists for centuries, leaving a golden mark on the world of art. Transparent, lightly staining yet intensely vibrant, this unique yellow paint has a rich history and continues to captivate artists with its cheerful hues.
Aureolin's story begins in the early 19th century when the compound Potassium Cobaltinitrite was first made by Nikolaus Wolfgang Fischer in 1831. Edouard Saint-Evre later synthesized the pigment in 1851-52, and it is he who is widely credited with introducing Cobalt Yellow into the palettes of artists who were drawn to its brilliant yellow hue, reminiscent of the sun itself. Establishing itself as a staple in the palettes of renowned artists such as J.M.W. Turner and Vincent van Gogh, the ability of Aureolin to capture the essence of sunlight made it particularly popular in landscapes and seascapes, adding a touch of warmth and brilliance to the canvas.
Impressionist painters, seeking to capture the fleeting effects of light, were drawn to Aureolin for its luminosity, with the pigment's transparent quality allowing artists to create soft, glowing effects in their sunlit scenes. Post-Impressionist artists like Van Gogh valued Aureolin for its intensity, and his iconic sunflowers and vibrant landscapes are infused with the golden glow that this pigment provides, contributing to the emotional impact of his works.
While Aureolin fell out of favor for a period due to concerns over its lightfastness, modern formulations have addressed these issues, and it is once again a popular choice among contemporary artists. Sold by several manufacturers of oil paints including Michael Harding, the pigment is much more widely available as a watercolour from manufacturers such as Winsor & Newton and Rosa Gallery.
Here are some ways artists use Aureolin today, which may give you some ideas and useful tips for incorporating this sunny pigment into your own work:
Luminous Landscapes:
Artists continue to use Aureolin to capture the warmth of sunlight in landscapes. Its transparency allows for layered washes, creating depth and a sense of atmosphere.
Floral Masterpieces:
Aureolin's golden tones bring floral compositions to life. Its transparent nature allows artists to layer delicate petals and capture the play of light on flowers.
Abstract Explorations:
In abstract art, Aureolin adds vibrancy and energy. Artists use it to create dynamic shapes and experiment with the interplay of light and color.
Portrait Highlights:
In portraiture, Aureolin can be used to enhance highlights and add a touch of warmth to skin tones, especially in sunlight-drenched scenes.
Tips for Using Aureolin:
Layering for Luminosity:
Experiment with layering Aureolin to achieve a radiant glow. Its transparency allows for subtle shifts in color and intensity.
Mixing Possibilities:
Aureolin mixes well with other colours, particularly watercolors, creating a spectrum of greens, oranges, and browns. Explore its versatility by combining it with both warm and cool hues.
Glazing Techniques:
Utilize glazing techniques to build depth and luminosity. Apply thin, transparent washes of Aureolin over dry layers to achieve a glowing effect.
Aureolin's journey through the annals of art history speaks to its enduring appeal. From the sun-dappled landscapes of the Impressionists to the contemporary creations of today's artists, this golden pigment continues to illuminate countless works of art with its timeless brilliance. As you explore the world of painting, Aureolin's golden radiance can add a unique, intense and timeless touch to your artistic creations.
