Pigments

Pigments

Cinnabar​

Symbol of good fortune

Cinnabar, historically mined in China, carries deep cultural significance. In traditional Chinese culture, red symbolizes good fortune, happiness, and prosperity, and was once reserved for the Emperor. It colors the walls and columns of the Forbidden City, where I was exceptionally granted permission to paint on location.

The Forbidden City in Beijing.
Cinnabar watercolor tube
Chinese brushes
Cinnabar watercolor tube
Painting location at the Forbidden City in Beijing.
I was required to show my passport
Painting the Forbidden City on location with cinnabar watercolor.
Travel sketchbook stamp from the Forbidden City.
Travel sketchbook stamp from the Forbidden City.
Monument
Light
Hutong
Street sign
Street sign
Taxi
Seal
Yinni
Inkstick
Street view
Wall
Passport stamp
  • Forbidden City, Beijing, China
  • 39°54'40.0"N 116°23'27.6"E
  • Saturday, 6 December 2025

Pigment recipe

PR106 Synthetic Cinnabar Mercuric sulfide (HgS)

Marie’s Chinese Watercolor Vermilion “Cinnabar”

Chinese White
Chinese Ink

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