Lamp Black is a carbon pigment often used in drawing and painting. The spelling of the word "black" is straightforward, but the spelling of "lamp" may seem odd. The IPA transcription of "lamp" is /læmp/, which shows that the vowel sound is a short "a" followed by an "m" sound. This matches the spelling of the word. So, even though it may not be immediately obvious why "lamp" is spelled with an "a" instead of an "e" as in "limp," the IPA transcription shows that the spelling makes sense.
Lamp black is a term used to describe a fine black powdered pigment that is primarily composed of carbon. It is obtained through the incomplete combustion of certain materials, such as oil, resin, or tar, which results in the formation of soot. Lamp black has been utilized as a pigment for centuries due to its deep black color and ability to absorb light.
This powdered pigment is particularly valued in various artistic disciplines, including painting, drawing, and printmaking. Its intense black hue allows for the creation of striking, bold lines and shading. Additionally, lamp black possesses good lightfastness, which means that it resists fading when exposed to light over time.
In addition to its artistic applications, lamp black is also utilized in different industrial and commercial contexts. It finds use as a colorant in the production of inks, dyes, and cosmetics. Furthermore, it serves as a pigment in manufacturing plastics, rubber, and other materials, where its finely divided particles contribute to the desired coloring properties.
Historically, lamp black was produced by burning vegetable or animal oils in special lamps that were designed to control the burning process. Nowadays, it is often produced through the controlled combustion of natural gas, oils, or petroleum products.
Overall, lamp black is a versatile black pigment that is highly valued for its rich color, lightfastness, and widespread applications in both art and industry.
The fine Boot formed by the condensation, of the smoke from burning oil, pitch, or resinous substances; safety-lamp, a lamp for giving the workmen light in coal-mines without the danger of causing an explosion.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "lamp black" originally comes from a combination of two Old English words: "lamp" and "blæc".
The word "lamp" is derived from the Latin word "lampa", which later evolved into the Old English word "læmp(e)". It referred to a vessel or container holding oil or some other source of light, such as a torch or lamp.
The word "black" in Old English is "blæc", which is believed to be derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*blakaz". It refers to the color black or something dark in general.
Therefore, the term "lamp black" emerged from the combination of these two Old English words, referring to the black sooty substance that is created from the incomplete combustion of oil or gas in lamps. This soot residue was often used as a pigment or dye, particularly in art or for coloring materials like ink or paint.