Lead white meaning

Lead white is a white pigment historically used in painting, valued for its opacity and brightness.


Lead white definitions

Word backwards dael etihw
Part of speech Lead white can be classified as a noun phrase.
Syllabic division lead - white
Plural The plural of the word "lead white" is "lead whites."
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) e,a,i
Consonants (5) l,d,w,h,t

Lead white, also known as lead carbonate, is a white pigment that has been used for centuries in art and painting. Its history dates back to ancient times, where it was commonly used by artists due to its opacity and brightness.

Lead white is created through a chemical reaction involving lead acetate and carbon dioxide, resulting in a dense white powder that is commonly used in oil paints. It is known for its durability and ability to dry quickly, making it a popular choice among artists.

Properties of Lead White

Lead white has excellent covering power, making it ideal for use as a base layer in paintings. Its high refractive index gives it a brilliant white color, and it has a smooth texture that allows for easy blending with other colors. However, lead white is toxic and can pose health risks if not handled properly.

Uses of Lead White

Lead white is commonly used in traditional oil painting techniques to create highlights, tints, and glazes. It has a long drying time, allowing artists to work with it for extended periods without worrying about it drying too quickly. Additionally, lead white is capable of creating a wide range of colors when mixed with other pigments.

Risks and Regulations

Due to its toxic nature, lead white is no longer as widely used as it once was. Many artists now opt for safer alternatives, such as titanium white or zinc white. However, lead white is still used by some artists who appreciate its unique properties and historical significance. It is important for artists to take precautions when working with lead white, such as using gloves and a mask to avoid inhalation or ingestion.

Overall, lead white is a versatile pigment with a rich history in the world of art. While its toxicity limits its use in contemporary painting, it remains a valuable tool for artists who understand and respect its properties.


Lead white Examples

  1. The artist used lead white paint to create highlights in the portrait.
  2. The conservationist identified lead white pigment in the historical artwork.
  3. The restoration team carefully removed the layer of lead white to reveal the original colors underneath.
  4. The art curator explained the significance of using lead white in Renaissance paintings.
  5. The art student learned about the toxicity of lead white and its impact on artists' health.
  6. The museum displayed a collection of paintings featuring lead white pigments from different time periods.
  7. The art dealer specialized in authenticating paintings by analyzing the presence of lead white.
  8. The art historian wrote a research paper on the use of lead white in classical art techniques.
  9. The artist experimented with mixing lead white with other pigments to create custom colors.
  10. The conservator recommended a treatment plan to stabilize the deteriorating lead white areas of the painting.


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  • Updated 06/04/2024 - 20:31:12