The history of Prussian Blue is a compelling narrative of accidental discovery, scientific curiosity, and artistic adoption. Emerging in the early 18th century, this pigment, synthesized by chance, quickly became a cornerstone of the painter's palette and a subject of ongoing chemical inquiry. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. celebrates the lineage of innovation that Prussian Blue represents.

The generally accepted account of Prussian Blue's origin points to Johann Jacob Diesbach, a color maker working in Berlin around 1704. Diesbach was attempting to produce a red pigment known as Florentine lake. His process involved using iron salts and potash. On this particular occasion, the potash he used was impure, having been contaminated by animal oil from a colleague's laboratory. Instead of the expected red, Diesbach produced a vibrant, deep blue. This unexpected outcome was not immediately understood, but Diesbach recognized the pigment's potential.

The exact recipe for Prussian Blue remained a closely guarded secret for some time, contributing to its mystique. However, by 1710, it was being described in scientific literature, and its properties were further detailed by John Woodward in 1726. The pigment's chemical complexity, involving iron in mixed oxidation states and cyanide ligands, made its precise structural determination a long-standing challenge for chemists. Early descriptions often varied, leading to confusion with similar pigments like 'Turnbull's blue,' though modern analysis confirms their fundamental identity.

The pigment's widespread adoption by artists in the 18th century was rapid. Its bright, strong blue color and relative affordability compared to ultramarine made it a revolutionary addition to the available palette. It quickly became a favorite for rendering skies, water, and shadows, finding its way into the works of prominent artists across Europe and eventually the world. The pigment's inherent chemical stability in neutral binders also contributed to its longevity in artworks.

Over the centuries, chemical research has refined the understanding and production of Prussian Blue. While early methods involved animal products, modern synthesis focuses on precise chemical reactions to control purity and particle size, influencing the pigment's exact hue and performance. The recognition of its medical applications as an antidote for heavy metal poisoning further broadened its significance. Today, Prussian Blue continues to be a vital pigment, its historical journey mirroring the progress of both art and science.