Definition of burnt sienna

The term "burnt sienna" refers to a deeply reddish-brown color commonly used in art and design. Its origin can be traced back to the natural pigment called "sienna," which was originally found in the Tuscan hill town of Siena, Italy. This pigment is composed of iron oxide and clay and has been used in art since ancient times. The word "burnt" in "burnt sienna" indicates that the pigment has undergone a process called calcination, which involves heating it to a high temperature in order to remove impurities and intensify its color. This process gives the resulting pigment, which is a rich, dark-reddish-brown, its name. Today, burnt sienna is commonly available as a synthetic pigment and is used in a wide range of applications, from painting and drawing to printing and digital design. Its deep, warm tone makes it a popular choice for creating a sense of warmth, richness, and depth in designs.