Rublev Colours Alizarin Crimson is a classic transparent red lake pigment based on alizarin, the historic colourant derived from the madder plant and later produced synthetically. With its slight purple bias on the colour wheel, PR83 is prized for deep crimson glazes, rich maroons, and subtle violet leaning reds that add depth to shadows and transparent passages.

This pigment is a synthetic lake made by precipitating the alizarin dye onto an aluminium substrate, producing a finely divided pigment with high transparency. It is especially valued by traditional painters and paint makers for glazing techniques, portrait shadows, and layered colour effects where opacity would feel heavy. Because alizarin crimson is known to have limited lightfastness compared with modern alternatives, it is best reserved for controlled studio work, glazes kept out of direct light, studies, or projects where historical accuracy is the priority.

Key features

• Colour Index PR83, classic alizarin crimson lake pigment

• Transparent red with a subtle purple bias, ideal for glazing and shadows

• Excellent for deep crimson mixes, maroons, and layered colour effects

• High oil demand and very fine particle size for specialist paint making

• Lightfastness is limited compared with modern reds, use with care in light exposed work

Safety note: Considered low hazard, but avoid inhaling dry pigment dust and follow standard studio hygiene.