British Victorian Dark Blue

[BESPJL]

Hi,

I would like to ask for suggestions on the mix (with oils and enamels) to get the dark blue to paint the trousers of a Drill Sergeant of the Coldstream Guards ca. 1875.

Thank you.

Paulo

 

[Einion]

Hi Paulo, first I would suggest not thinking of it as a dark blue but as a near-black, that's a good start. How to mix it will depend on what you have of course but from what I know of the colour a mix of French Ultramarine and black is a good base (this is essentially Payne's Grey if you already have that).

I would highlight it - while striving to keep the colour still quite dark - with a little white and a touch of brown (Burnt Umber probably) or you could try a little flesh mix.

Einion

 

[Blind Pew]

Thankyou Enion.
Believe it or not, I'm doing a Chota Sahib figure at the minute which this applies to. The notes describe it as dark blue, but the picture does look black. Highlighting it will be a real challenge! I will bear your advice in mind.
cheers mate!

 

[BESPJL]

Hi Einion,

Thanks for the tips.

Cheers,
Paulo