Rublev Lead White #2 (also known as Flake White or Cremnitz White) is a classic opaque white with a beautiful “long” handling feel that follows the direction of the brushstroke. Straight from the tube it has a ropey, creamy body that stays soft yet sculptural, helping you build confident highlights and textured passages without the paint collapsing.
This version is made with pale walnut oil and basic lead carbonate (Pigment White 1), produced by modern processes, with no stabilisers (no stearates, no waxes) and no fillers to dilute or alter the pigment’s natural characteristics. The result is an exceptionally high pigment load and high pigment volume concentration (PVC) - up to 50% - which is why the Rublev 50ml tube often feels noticeably heavier than many other flake whites. Walnut oil also gives a slightly different working feel compared to linseed, supporting smooth application and clean mixtures, especially in pale passages.
Lead white was the most common white on the Old Masters’ palette because it offers a unique combination of opacity, handling, and traditional surface character. Lead White #2 mixes easily with other oil colours and is especially useful for portraits, classical techniques, and strong, natural-looking lights.
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Pigment: Lead White (Basic Lead Carbonate), PW 1 (77597)
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Binder: Walnut oil
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Additives: None
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Opacity: Opaque
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Tinting strength: Medium
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Drying rate: Medium
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ASTM lightfastness: I
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Permanence: A (permanent)
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Code: 803
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Series: 5
Important safety note: DANGER - CONTAINS LEAD. Harmful if swallowed. Avoid ingestion and skin contact. Wear gloves and protective clothing. Do not sand dry paint. Keep away from children and pets and do not use on surfaces accessible to children or pregnant women.
Note: Because Rublev Artist Oils contain no waxes or stabilisers, slight natural separation of pigment and oil may occur. Knead the tube to remix before painting.
