Burnt Sienna Color Guide: Get Toasty
What Is Burnt Sienna Color?
Sienna, in its natural state, gets its coloring from iron oxide and manganese minerals. When heated, the hue of sienna deepens or darkens, creating a “burnt” look.
In terms of appearance, burnt sienna is in the family of red clay and terracotta, sharing the same reddish-brown undertones. Even though burnt sienna is technically a neutral, its red tint makes it come alive – making it feel like a (non-neutral) color.
Raw Sienna vs. Burnt Sienna
Raw sienna is light, burnt sienna is dark. How the two are differentiated on a physical level? Burnt sienna is simply raw sienna that’s been heated.
Dark Sienna vs. Burnt Sienna
If you’re an artist, you may have also come across the term dark sienna. This name for a shade of paint, crayon or colored pencil is simply that – a name for a color (most likely, someone, somewhere decided it looks like a darker version of sienna, and boom, the color name was born). Whereas the burnt name refers to an actual burnt version of an earth element, dark refers to shade only.
What Is the Burnt Sienna Color Association?
Before modern artist’s tools were widespread, raw sienna and burnt sienna were savored for their high pigmentation, and used for drawing and painting. The name ‘sienna’ actually comes from the place where it was “discovered”: Siena, Italy.
What Colors Go with Burnt Sienna?
When using the color to decorate a home (Southwestern or otherwise), keep textures raw and unrefined. Because the color of burnt sienna is so “organic” by itself, it complements beautifully with earthy elements like brick, leather, stone and natural wood.
Featured Products
— More Great Articles —
Burnt Sienna Color Palette
— Read the Latest —
Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.
