All Pigments
Colour Index Code
PBK11
Mars Black
- Chemistry
- Iron oxide (Fe₃O₄)
- Origin
- Synthetic mineral.
- History
- A fast-drying, opaque, neutral black; non-carbon alternative.
- Toxicity
- Non-toxic.
Mars Black (PBK11) is Iron oxide (Fe₃O₄). In our watercolour range it is semi-transparent, yes granulation, average lightfastness.
- Transparency
- Semi-Transparent
- Granulation
- YES
- Staining
- Medium
- Lightfastness
- Average
PBK11: Questions & Answers
What is PBK11?
PBK11 (Mars Black) is Iron oxide (Fe₃O₄). Synthetic mineral..
What is the chemistry of PBK11?
PBK11 is Iron oxide (Fe₃O₄).
Is PBK11 toxic?
Non-toxic.
Is PBK11 lightfast?
In the Michael Harding range, colours using PBK11 are rated average for lightfastness.
Is PBK11 transparent or opaque?
PBK11 is semi-transparent.
Does PBK11 granulate?
In watercolour, PBK11 is granulating.
Which Michael Harding colours use PBK11?
PBK11 appears in 4 Michael Harding colours: Cosmic Blue, Vine Black, Cosmic Blue, Vine Black.
Michael Harding colours using PBK11
4 colours across both rangesLightfastness: Excellent
| Colour | Medium | Transparency | Lightfastness | Granulation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmic Blue No. 252 | Oil | Semi-Transparent | Excellent | — |
| Vine Black No. 135 | Oil | Semi-Transparent | Average | — |
| Cosmic Blue W227 | Watercolour | Semi-Transparent | Excellent | YES |
| Vine Black W135 | Watercolour | Semi-Transparent | Excellent | YES |
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Mix with
Complementary pigments to mix with PBK11
Opposite-family pigments that pair cleanly with PBK11 for neutrals, shadows and chromatic greys.
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