Rublev Colours Zinc Oxide is a classic white pigment known as zinc white or Chinese white (PW4). Developed as one of the major white pigments of modern painting, zinc oxide is valued for its clean whiteness, subtle cooling effect in mixes, and strong performance in water based techniques. It has long been used in watercolour under the name Chinese white, where it is prized for bright highlights and delicate tints.

Zinc oxide retains its whiteness well during aging and has a low tendency to yellow compared to many oil-bound whites. It is compatible with inorganic pigments and is stable in colour under light. However, zinc oxide can react in drying oils and contribute to brittleness over time, so it is best suited to watercolour, gouache, tempera, casein, and other traditional water based mediums, or to specific oil applications where you understand and accept the conservation tradeoffs.

Key features

• Colour Index PW4 (Zinc(II) Oxide), bright white pigment

• Commonly known as zinc white or Chinese white

• Excellent for watercolour, gouache, tempera and traditional paint making

• Lightfast and colour stable, low yellowing tendency

• Use caution in oil painting, especially in grounds and underlayers

Safety note: Zinc oxide is generally low hazard, but avoid inhaling dry pigment dust and follow standard studio hygiene.