Rustic Brown is the shade that makes new work look like it has been in the family for a century: a dark walnut brown shot through with warm bronze, nearer to oxidised metal than to a flat wood stain. Over raised detail it sinks into the low spots and burnishes on the high ones, which is precisely how real age behaves.

This water based Art Alchemy Metallique paint arrives in a 1.7 fl oz (50 ml) jar with a generous pigment load and dries permanent. Use it as an antiquing wash over mould castings and carved trim, base coat a small decor piece, or work it into canvases and mixed media art. Archival safe and non toxic, it is a natural partner to gold, copper and cream accents.