Flake white . . . mull your own?

[Richard Bingham]

Ha ha, Allan, what I think is I sure wish I had some knowledge of chemistry . . . although so often, a general knowledge isn't "enough" when applied to a speciific problem, and I doubt if the Dutch manufactureres of lead white in the 17th century knew chemical formulae and theory . . . they sure enough knew how to make it, though.

You are providing a more complete picture of the process for me, and I much appreciate that. It's really interesting to note the presence of sulphur compounds (and the subsequent problems with "contaminated" lead white) arises from the use of manure in the process . . . that makes a lot of sense.

I'm pretty certain you'll discover a process that's both workable on a small scale (without having to move into a brewery or a tanning shed or be behind a dairy) that will produce high quality basic lead carbonate!

If I run across any more pertinent lore or advice from chemists, I'll pass it on!

[Allan Rahbek]

I imagine that the white lead pigment was first seen on some lead that was laying on a dunghill or maybe in connection with some sour vinegar.
These observations would easily lead to the conclutions necessary for the process that has been used for more than 2000 years. It was described by Greek Dioskorides 2200 years ago that it was made the same way and used for medicine !!!

[Allan Rahbek]

Hi all,
I feel that I owe you to say that I have cancelled the project of making my own lead white.

The reason why, is that a Danish lurker was so kind to inform me that I could order Chremnitz White / Michael Harding, from a Danish artist color shop.

Do'nt tell anybody, but I managed to order and get it in the mail, the real thing.

Thank you, Christoffer of Copenhagen, for helping me out on this.

I like the stuff, it has another feel than Titanium White, it is warmer and blends softly. I especially like it for skin color.

By the way, I managed to make a handfull of lead white powder and I will mull my own paint one of these days and try not to lick my fingers.

[Richard Bingham]

Hey, Allan, your secret's safe with me !! What good fortune. We sure don't need to spend any more time on studio maintenance and materials preparation than absolutely necessary . . . although you can't be painting every waking hour, such things cut into painting time eventually.

Yes, lead white has very different characteristics from other whites. Once you're "hooked", there's nothing else like it! Harding makes fine paints.