Cadmium Yellow Medium | Matisse acrylic paint

Cadmium Yellow Medium | Matisse acrylic paint

Historical Unveiling

 

Surprisingly, despite historical challenges with bright yellows, the adoption of Cadmium Yellow unfolded at a measured pace. Its development in 1817 marked the beginning, with France being the first to embrace it as an artist's colour in 1820. The hue gradually spread, reaching Germany in 1829, the US in 1842, and finally making its mark in England in 1846. This unhurried introduction was influenced by the lingering reputation of Chrome Yellow, despite its known impermanence. Paint manufacturers, eager to assert the superiority of their Chrome Yellow versions, created a perception of a "secret recipe," emphasizing its affordability and appealing golden hue in the tube.

 

Monet's Artistic Embrace

 

A turning point came with Monet's adoption of Cadmium Yellow, notably using it almost pure for a depiction of autumnal willow trees beside a river. The vibrancy of this large swath of Cadmium Yellow, observed up close, is truly stunning. The exceptional permanence of Cadmium Yellow ensures that the brilliance captured by Monet will endure for centuries, a testament to the enduring beauty of this pigment for future generations.

 

Cadmium Yellow Medium: A Natural Partner

 

Today, Cadmium Yellow exists in various shades, and Cadmium Yellow Medium closely resembles the original yellow from the 1820s. This hue proves valuable in mixing with reds to produce oranges, mimicking the golden yellows prevalent in nature, from ripening wheat to vivid flowers. It serves as a tool to enhance ochre tones, especially when portraying sunlight effects in natural settings.

 

An Artist's Essential

 

Cadmium Yellow has rightfully earned its place as a reliable companion in artists' paintboxes. Its versatility and permanence make it a preferred choice for a wide range of artistic expressions. The CL (Cautionary Labelling) Seal signifies that products undergo a thorough toxicological evaluation, ensuring proper labelling and information on safe usage. Certified by ACMI, these products adhere to chronic hazard labelling standards (ASTM D4236), assuring artists that, when used correctly, they pose no hazards. It is crucial to read product labels thoroughly, especially for products carrying the CL Seal, and to exercise caution when handling them around children or individuals unable to comprehend safety labelling due to physical or mental limitations

WARNING: CADMIUM COLOURS CONTAIN CADMIUM PIGMENT (CADMIUM SULFIDE) KNOWN TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE CANCER. DO NOT SPRAY APPLY, SWALLOW OR INHALE. CANCER AGENT BY INHALATION BASED ON EXPERIMENTAL DATA. FOR FURTHER HEALTH INFORMATION OR ADVICE, CONTACT A LOCAL POISON CONTROL CENTRE. IN AUSTRALIA ph: 13 11 26; IN NEW ZEALAND ph: 0800 764 766; IN US ph: 1-800-222-1222

Safety Data Sheet for Matisse Cadmium Yellow Medium (SDS)

To view or download a copy of Cadmium Yellow Medium SDS, please  CLICK HERE * (271kb)  
*The above link will open an external Dropbox window