Scientists have confirmed the source of the vivid blue in Jackson Pollock’s Number 1A, 1948, displayed at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The painting, measuring almost nine feet wide, features Pollock’s well-known drip and splatter style, with a personal mark of handprints near the top. While earlier studies already identified the red and yellow pigments, the blue remained uncertain. In a study released in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences this week, researchers discovered that the turquoise color was created using manganese blue, a synthetic pigment popular among artists and designers until the 1990s. This finding pushes forward knowledge of Pollock’s artistic methods and strengthens understanding of his deliberate use of color.

To confirm this result, scientists took small samples from the canvas and analyzed them with laser technology, creating a chemical fingerprint that matched manganese blue. Experts noted that this pigment, once also used to color swimming pool cement, was phased out because of environmental concerns. The study is considered an illustrious contribution to art science, showing how modern tools can address unresolved questions in cultural history. Researchers explained that Pollock’s direct dripping technique made it easier to sample paints without mixture interference. This investigation offers salutary benefits for conservation, since knowing the chemical structure of pigments helps protect artworks against damage and identify forgeries. Scholars described the discovery as a seminal moment for both chemistry and art, providing a lucid explanation of color origins while deepening respect for Pollock’s methodical approach. The work also highlights the interdisciplinary value of connecting art with science, ensuring that cultural treasures are better preserved for future generations.