Rublev Indian Red is a single pigment, natural red iron oxide made from mineral deposits near Chennai (Madras) in Tamil Nadu, India, where the iron ores are known for high ferric oxide content (often above 90%). This is a classic hematite-based red earth that is water-free (anhydrous), meaning its colour comes from iron oxide rather than hydrated iron oxide. The result is a powerful, opaque, permanent red with excellent covering power and a distinctive bluish leaning depth that defines the best Indian Reds.

In practice, Indian Red is prized for its high tinting strength, dense mass tone, and exceptional stability. It is perfect for underpainting, tonal structure, portrait shadows, brick and earth mixes, and lowering chroma in brighter colours while keeping mixtures grounded and natural. With titanium white it produces a range of warm pinks to muted rose and salmon tints, useful for skin tones and atmospheric passages. As a natural red oxide, it is also a strong absorber of ultraviolet light, contributing to its long-term durability.

• Pigment: Indian Red, PR 102 (77491) (natural iron oxide)

• Binder: Linseed oil

• Additives: None

• Opacity: Opaque

• Tinting strength: High

• Drying rate: Medium

• ASTM lightfastness: I

• Permanence: A (permanent)

Note: Because Rublev Artist Oils contain no waxes or stabilisers, slight natural separation of pigment and oil may occur. Knead the tube to remix before painting.