1oz / 28.5 grams High grade of Fra Angelico blue pigment extracted from Lapis Lazuli pigment. Fine grid 0-40 microns. The process is based on the recipe from the book The “Craftsman’s Handbook” by Cennino d’Andrea Cennini which is translated by Daniel V. Thompson, Jr. The original Italian text was a great help. Many thanks to the great guidance of ‘maestro’. Due to extensive research and multiple try-n-fail experiences, Master Pigments can extract this unique pigment. After years of looking for the right ingredients and steps in the preparation routine, the procedure was developed. Different grades of the pigment are extracted. A plastic dough formed of resin and powder is intact during the whole extraction process. There is no disintegration of dough or wrapping in the cloth. Just oiled hands, dough and water. The preparation begins by melting raw beeswax, gum mastic and pine rosin. The previously prepared pigment is mixed in. Then the mixture is kneaded in hands until an evenly textured of dark grayish-blue dough forms. While still hot and elastic, the mass is divided into three parts and these are formed into sticks. That way they are easier to knead. Each stick is kneaded by hands in hot water in a specific routine, repeated number of times. The dough keep impurities locked in while pigment particles fall out and descend down to the bottom of the container. This is literally a ‘hand made’ pigment. The first routine produces the best grade. Vivid, deep blue, but not dark, hypnotizing. Every-time an uplifting and purifying feeling arises almost like there is more to see but our vision is limited to go so far in blue range. This is the Fra Angelico blue pigment (303001). Natural pigment suitable for icon painting (egg tempera), oil painting and watercolor painting without additional grinding. WARNING Professional use only! When handling wear dust mask and gloves! Keep away from children!