Watercolor has been a part of human expression since prehistoric times. Its rapid application, adaptability, and vibrant hues make it a favorite for everyone from hobbyists to legendary artists. Whether used in tubes or pans, this medium is a staple in classrooms, professional studios, and travel kits alike, serving as a perfect tool for breathing life into quick sketches. Despite its ubiquity, much of the history behind watercolor remains obscure.

The Composition of the Paint

At its core, watercolor is a straightforward blend of four primary components. First is the pigment, which can be either synthetic or derived from natural sources. This is held together by gum arabic, which serves as the binder. Manufacturers also incorporate additives—such as glycerin, honey, or various preservatives—to manipulate the paint's texture, color intensity, and shelf life. Finally, water is used by the artist to thin the pigment during the painting process.

The Origins of Commercial Supplies

Before the 18th century, artists did not have the luxury of buying ready-made sets. They were required to source raw pigments from apothecaries or specialized "colormen" and mix their own paints at home. This changed dramatically in 1781 when brothers William and Thomas Reeves developed the first water-soluble cakes. These portable pans are the ancestors of the sets used today and were a primary catalyst for the golden age of English watercolor painting.

A Crucial Instrument for Scientific Discovery

While watercolor was sometimes viewed as secondary to oil painting in the fine art world, it was indispensable for scientific and geographical exploration. During the 1700s, many painters accompanied archaeological and geological missions led by groups like the Society of Dilettanti. Because the medium is portable and quick to dry, these artists could rapidly document landscapes and artifacts across the Mediterranean, Asia, and the Americas, providing the public with visual records of distant wonders long before the invention of photography.

Consistency Across Different Manufacturers

Artists often notice that switching from one brand to another can lead to unexpected results, even when the color names are identical. While shades like cerulean, cobalt, or ocher are industry standards, every manufacturer uses a proprietary formula and specific ratios of ingredients. Because these recipes vary, the behavior of the paint on paper will differ between brands. To ensure predictable results, painters often stick to a specific producer or conduct extensive tests when trying new supplies.

The Absence of White Pigment in Traditional Practice

In classical watercolor techniques, opaque white paint is traditionally avoided. The fundamental philosophy of the medium relies on transparency; to create a lighter shade, the artist simply adds more water rather than white pigment. To achieve a pure white, the artist must strategically leave areas of the paper untouched. In the 19th century, certain prestigious art societies even looked down upon the use of white gouache, believing that the true beauty of the medium lay in its luminous transparency.