viridian

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Viridian

First prepared in Paris by Pannetier around 1838, it was then patented by Guignet in 1859

Manufacturer / product code: Kremer / 44250
Chemical description: hydrated chrome oxide. Kremer PDF
Color: green
Color Index: PG18
More info: Pigments Through The Ages Colourlex

Viridian is a transparent, cool green pigment chemically identified as hydrated chromium(III) oxide (Cr₂O₃·2H₂O). It was first synthesized in the mid-19th century, with commercial production beginning around 1859, and quickly gained popularity among artists for its stability and distinctive bluish-green hue. Unlike earlier green pigments such as verdigris or emerald green, viridian is non-toxic and exhibits excellent resistance to light, heat, and chemical degradation. Its relatively low tinting strength and high transparency make it particularly well suited for glazing, atmospheric effects, and subtle modulation of foliage and shadows. In oil painting, viridian dries slowly and forms flexible paint films, while in watercolor it produces delicate washes without granulation. The pigment was enthusiastically adopted by Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painters, who valued its cool tonality for landscapes and modern color harmonies. From a materials perspective, viridian can be distinguished from anhydrous chromium oxide green by its hydration state and optical properties. In conservation and technical analysis, viridian is considered a benchmark of pigment stability, providing a reliable reference point when assessing the condition and dating of modern and contemporary artworks.

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