Michael Harding Genuine Chinese Vermillion

Please note that this paint contains pigments that are toxic. There is online debate about that, and we would advise people to consult a qualified toxicologist. Please educate yourself on the risks as well as the proper handling and safety measures needed with this color. We can’t point out the toxicity of every artist pigment (as there are many, and we are artists, not toxicologists) so please make sure to look into the MSDS for every paint you use. Please contact the manufacturer for the MSDS, safety, handling, materials and composition, etc. We also recommend supplementing this with doing one’s own research on artist paints. As far as lightfastness, despite vermillion’s charms the legendary Gunzorro’s testing showed that genuine vermillion displays fading due to direct sunlight: https://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/topic/vermilion-test/page/5/

“Inorganic – A rich, potent colour favoured by the Old Masters, my Genuine Chinese Vermilion is made from the real Mercuric Sulphide. This is not a ‘hue’, as you will find in other manufacturers’ ranges. The body and texture of my Genuine Chinese Vermilion is unparalleled in the industry. This is a paint coveted not only by the Old Masters but by Modern Masters as well. Our Chinese Vermillion is made with native, natural cinnabar, purified to a degree where it has robust resistance to general gallery conditions and is only subject to change when exposed to direct sunlight or the presence of chlorine compounds, as with true historical vermilions. This is an extraordinary colour that cannot be achieved by using a cadmium.” -Michael Harding Oils

Please be advised that while the Michael Harding site points out this color is vegan, this color is extremely toxic. Please do your own research on all artists oil colors and their toxicity.

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