Rublev Underpainting Lead White is a brilliant, opaque white made for fast, reliable oil painting underlayers. Often compared to flake white or Cremnitz white, this mixed white combines lead white (PW1), titanium white (PW6), and chalk in an oil-alkyd binder to create a smooth paint that sets extremely quickly and dries to a matte surface.

Because it dries in around 1-2 hours, it is ideal for traditional underpainting where you want to start overpainting the same day. The matte finish provides tooth for excellent adhesion in subsequent layers, helping later paint films grip without the slickness that can occur with slower-drying, glossy underlayers. It is also a strong choice for alla prima painting when you need a responsive white that pulls mixtures toward a fast-drying, velvety finish.

To speed drying and create a lean, matte underpainting, mix Underpainting Lead White into your regular oil colours at roughly one-third to one-half of the mixture (use less for slower drying). Do not apply this product over slower-drying oil paint layers, as the fast-drying upper layer can cause cracking or wrinkling.

Important safety and compliance notes:

WARNING! CONTAINS LEAD

This product contains lead and mineral spirits. Use with adequate ventilation, avoid skin contact and inhalation of vapour or mist, and keep away from children and pregnant women. In regions where lead products are restricted (including under the German Chemical Prohibition Ordinance), sale may be limited to professional users, resellers, or research institutions.