The Alchemy of Color and Chemical Change in Medieval Manuscripts
The Alchemy of Color and Chemical Change in Medieval Manuscripts

Medieval experiments yielded vivid pigments like vermilion, mosaic gold, and verdigris—all found in these books.

Making Green: Tempera versus Oil
Making Green: Tempera versus Oil

Pigments mixed with oil look glossy, whereas those mixed with egg yolk appear matte and flat even when layered.

Making Purple: The Science of Art
Making Purple: The Science of Art

How can paint ingredients be identified? Scientists examine tiny samples and prepare pigments from old recipes.