Ceruse, also known as white lead, was historically one of the most popular pigments used in art and cosmetics. It was often mixed with other materials to create paints and was prized for its brilliant white color. In cosmetics, ceruse was applied to the face to achieve an extremely pale complexion, which was a sign of beauty and aristocracy during certain periods in European history.
The pigment is made by reacting lead with vinegar, creating a substance called lead carbonate. While it produced a desired effect, ceruse was toxic, and prolonged exposure led to a range of health problems, including skin ulcers, hair loss, and neurological damage. By the late 19th century, its use began to diminish as awareness of its toxic properties spread, and safer alternatives were developed.
Despite its decline in use, ceruse remains a significant part of art history. Many famous paintings from the Renaissance and Baroque periods contain ceruse, and its application can be seen in some of the oldest works of Western art. Today, ceruse is no longer used in cosmetics, but it continues to be of interest to historians, chemists, and art conservators studying the evolution of materials and pigments.