More about oil paint

Origin

It is difficult to determine when exactly oil paint was invented. It has evolved considerably over the centuries, but its origins date back to the end of the Middle Ages. European painters, more specifically in Flanders and the Netherlands, generalized its use. Although oil paint had already been in use, painter and historian Giorgio Vasari attributed the invention of oil paint to the Flemish painter Jan van Eyck.

A Timeless Classic

Many great artists used oil paint in their works, such as Leonardo da Vinci (The Mona Lisa), Jan Van Eyck (The Arnolfini Portrait), Théodore Géricault (The Raft of the Medusa) and Rembrandt (The Night Watch). Even several centuries later, these works remain very well preserved, which speaks to the longevity of oil paint.

Composition

Consisting of pigments suspended in a drying oil—most often linseed—oil paint can be mixed with different mediums like turpentine to change the consistency and sheen of the paint. Some of the more common natural pigments you'll find are zinc oxide, sienna, umber, and cadmium. As some pigments do have levels of toxicity, it's always wise to take safety precautions, though synthetic pigments have become increasingly reliable in their lightfastness.



Top Brands

Discover our top oil paint brands such as Winsor & Newton, pebeo, and more. For example,Winsor Newton Artists' Oils offer quality colours with a high concentration of pigments that maintain an optimum colouring power, even when lightened using white. They blend with one another, resulting in colours with a uniform consistency and a permanent hold. They offer good working properties. Suitable for canvas, cardboard, wood panels, and more.

Winton Oil Colours made from high-quality pigments, Winton Oil Colours are durable, lightfast and permanent. Delivering consistent colour every time, their ready-to-use formulation means you can effortlessly work at any scale. Ideal for those using large volumes of paint. Explore our store for quality paint at the best value.