Category: Art > Ultramarine
One of the most captivating stories in art history revolves around the color blue, particularly the pigment known as ultramarine. Derived from the lapis lazuli stone, ultramarine was historically one of the most expensive pigments available, often costing more than gold. This rarity made it a symbol of wealth and power, and it was predominantly used in religious paintings, where artists would reserve its use for the robes of the Virgin Mary, emphasizing her importance and divinity. The demand for this vibrant color led to the development of synthetic alternatives in the 19th century, such as Prussian blue, which made the color more accessible to artists and changed the landscape of art forever. This transition not only democratized the use of blue in artistic expression but also marked a significant shift in the materials and techniques artists could employ, paving the way for modern art movements that embraced a wider palette.