Black is an essential color in any oil painter’s palette, yet not all black oil paints are the same. Different black oil paints offer different drying times and mixing behaviors that can greatly impact your painting.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common black oil paints, including Ivory Black, Lamp Black, Mars Black, and Bone Black, and discuss their characteristics to help you choose the right one for your individual painting goals.

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Ivory Black

Ivory Black is one of the most commonly used blacks in oil painting. Traditionally made by charring ivory or animal bones, modern Ivory Black is a carbon-based pigment that is deep and semi-transparent. It has a slower drying time compared to other blacks, making it ideal for slower painters and those who are fond of blending.

Sennelier Artists’ Extra Fine Oil Paint – Ivory Black, 40 ml tube Sennelier creates their extraordinarily luscious colors from the finest hand-ground pigments combined with pure, first-press, non-yellowing, safflower oils. They produce an outstanding collection of oils distinguished by a “satin” finish and

Lamp Black

Lamp Black is one of the deepest and most intense blacks available. Made from soot collected from burning oils or resins, it is highly opaque. It provides strong coverage and works well for high contrast areas and areas that need deep, dramatic blacks.

Michael Harding Artists Oil Color – Lamp Black, 40 ml tube This is a professional line of oil paint formulated to the highest standards. Using techniques dating back to the days of the Old Masters, Michael Harding creates powerful, intense colors of paint that are both beautiful and durable. – Michael Harding Artists Oil Color – Lamp Black, 40 ml tube

Mars Black

Mars Black is a synthetic iron oxide-based black known for its opacity and fast drying time. It is the most opaque of all black oil paints, making it excellent for strong coverage and crisp edges. Because of its quicker drying properties, it is a great choice for artists who want to build layers efficiently without extended drying times.

Gamblin Artist’s Oil Color – Mars Black, 37 ml tube Gamblin Artist’s Oil Colors are crafted by hand with the well-being of artists, their work, and the environment in mind. They combine the best traditions of the past with the latest technical innovations, giving you the freedom to create without compromise. – Gamblin Artist’s Oil Color – Mars Black, 37 ml tube

Bone Black

Bone Black is similar to Ivory Black, as it is also derived from charred bones. However, it tends to be thicker. Bone Black is semi-transparent and has a lower tinting strength than Mars or Lamp Black, making it useful for nuanced color work. Artists seeking a traditional, historical black with more subtle handling properties often prefer Bone Black.

Rublev makes a bone black you can see here.

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Choosing the Right Black Oil Paint for You

• For strong opacity and fast drying: Mars Black is the best option for bold applications and efficiency.
• For historical accuracy and nuanced work: Bone Black provides a classic, versatile black with soft handling properties.
• For slow painters, Ivory Black is your friend.

Each black has its own distinct character, and the right choice depends on your painting style and needs. By understanding the properties of different black oil paints, you can make informed decisions to enhance your artistic expression.

Which black do you prefer in your work? Let us know in the comments!

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You might also enjoy these posts:

Choosing the Right White: A Guide to White Oil Paints

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• Oil Paint Materials List
• Painting Composition: The Key to Making Better Art
• Realistic Portrait Drawing
• Guide to Black Oil Paints
• Choosing the Right White: A Guide to White Oil Paints

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