Quite unexpectedly and yet happily, a new pigment project has come my way. Some months ago, a client came to me with a request to paint a commission with the theme of 5th century BCE Greece. Specifically, he wants the focus to be black/red figure vase painting that was in its apogee at about 480-430 BCE. Again, I have delved head first into history searching for objects, pigments, myths, events, and the always present gods and goddesses of that period. And again, the subject matter is endless and utterly fascinating.
Like Egypt’s history, Ancient Greek history has never been a top priority for me, but after in depth reading over the past weeks I am hooked. If Greece were not in such financial turmoil, I would plan a trip there. At least our dollar might be worth something. For now, I will just have to be satisfied doing my research vicariously through books and film.
One splendid bit of information unearthed is that the Greeks had many pigments available to them, several more than the Egyptians. Not only did they have the usual earth pigments such as umbers, ochre, and red iron oxides, but also vermilion (from China), and Egyptian blue and green frit imported from Egypt. Natural cinnabar was in use too. Who knows……now with all the subject matter at my fingertips along with so many amazing pigments, this one-painting commission might just evolve into an entire multi-painting project.
I can’t wait to see what you create.
Hi Sue, An in-depth pigment research can be a provocative, though time consuming, experience. Glad you are enjoying reading about the historical part of it too. Once I find an interesting subject, I dive right in head first, and usually don’t resurface for months. Margret
of course I love your paintings, they are fabulous, but I think I am loving your idea of in-depth researching even more. The stories, the pigments, the little bits of history – well done!