Chrome Red, Molybdate Orange
PR104
Alternate Names
Chrome Orange
American Vermilion
Pigment Description
Currently made by Rublev as an orange, this is a bright orange that is also toxic -- extremely toxic. It contains Chromium VI. Please see the Artist's Guide to Health and Safety for more information about health issues associated with Chrome and Lead. The author's updated work can be found through her site.
Rublev Orange Molybdate, PR104
This color has mostly been discontinued throughout the art industry, and as a pigment, Chrome Red/ Molybdate Orange has historically had lightfastness issues. To try to mitigate these issues with the chrome colors, the pigment particles can be coated with a silicate. Rublev's version is stated to be made with a "silicate-coated (encapsulated) grade with very good lightfastness."
Rublev Orange Molybdate, PR104
Like many oil colors that contain lead, this color has a lot of body when made into oil paint. It is opaque and has good coverage. However it is toxic and can easily be substituted.
PR104, Orange Molybdate, by Rublev
Resources
PR104 pigment data from David G. Myers, The Color of Art Pigment Database, Artiscreation.comCAMEO Materials Database: Conservation & Art Materials Encyclopedia Online, Museum of Fine Arts Boston. (n.d., accessed June 2025). Molybdate Orange. Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
Stats
Lightfastness
Not enough data, may be Very Good, but refer to note
The only source we could find on its lightfastness was from Rublev, who described their particular pigment as "very good", however this may vary depending on the supplier. Artiscreation lists ASTM II. The 1980s NPIRI reported slight change in masstone and tints even in indoor exposures so if you like this pigment, it’s worth doing your own testing. They also reported slight change in masstone and tints in outdoor lightfastness testing.
Transparency
Opaque
Toxicity
Extremely Toxic, Chromium VI, Lead
Artiscreation lists this as Hazardous, "Hazardous, use appropriate precautions for handling toxic substances, especially if working with the dry powder; Do not ingest; Avoid dust & spray." MFA Cameo lists it as a carcinogen, mutigen and more, see their information as well as manufacturer SDS as well. We are not toxicologists, so please consult the relevant experts.
Tinting
High
Dry Time
Medium
Oil Content
Low
Some sources list it as moderately low by volume. By weight, Artiscreation lists 14-22 g/100g of oil.
Chemical Name
Molybdated Lead Chromate, Molybdate Chrome Red, or lead chromate and lead molybdate
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