Toxic Pigments in Art History

What was a common use for lead white in ancient times?

• As a building material

• In cosmetics and paints

• For medicinal purposes

• As a food additive

Which two elements make up the pigment cinnabar?

• Chromium and lead

• Lead and sulfur

• Mercury and sulfur

• Copper and arsenic

What is the main health risk associated with minium orange?

• Lead poisoning

• Mercury poisoning

• Arsenic poisoning

• Chromium poisoning

Why was school bus yellow originally chosen for buses?

• It was easy to produce

• It was distinctive and eye-catching

• It was the safest pigment

• It was the cheapest option

What makes hexavalent chromium particularly dangerous?

• It causes immediate skin burns

• It is radioactive

• It can steal electrons from cells

• It is highly flammable

What toxic element was used in Scheele’s Green?

• Lead

• Mercury

• Arsenic

• Chromium

What was a secondary use for Scheele’s Green after its decline in popularity?

• As a food dye

• As an insecticide

• In glass making

• In textile production

What is a potential health effect of exposure to manganese blue?

• Immediate blindness

• Symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease

• Respiratory issues

• Skin rashes

What is a modern safety measure for cobalt violet paint?

• It is now made without arsenic

• It is only used in industrial settings

• It is mixed with lead to neutralize toxins

• It is banned in all art supplies

What is a common symptom of cobalt poisoning?

• Hair loss

• Nausea

• Skin irritation

• Heart issues