PBk7 CI#77266
70% of Mars Black in a tube
Toxicity: Non-toxic
Lightfastness: 8/8
Drying time: Average
Color/ Tone: Neutral black (slightly warmer than Lamp Black, cooler than Ivory Black)
Transparency: Extremely opaque, excellent for covering layers
Mars Black (PBk11, Synthetic Iron Oxide Black) is a deep, neutral black pigment made from synthetic iron oxide. Unlike carbon-based blacks (e.g., Ivory Black or Vine Black), Mars Black is inorganic, offering superior opacity, durability, and a slightly warmer undertone. It has been a staple in modern artists' palettes since the 20th century.
History:
Developed as part of the "Mars pigments" family (synthetic iron oxides, including Mars Red, Yellow, and Brown). In the 20th Century, it was favored for its matte, opaque consistency and strong tinting strength.
Unlike Ivory Black (PBk8), Mars Black doesn’t dry slowly in oils or create cracking.
Famous Works:
- Pablo Picasso (1881–1973): "Guernica" (1937)
