Mars Violet 

Editor: This is "Mars Violet," manufactured by Charles Roberson and Co. It seems like just a simple jar of pigment, but I'm intrigued. What's the story behind a single color being preserved like this? Curator: Well, this isn't just any pigment. Consider the sociopolitical implications of color production. Pigments like "Mars Violet" weren't always readily available. Their creation, distribution, and use were deeply influenced by industrial advancements and global trade. Do you think this impacts how artists could use the material? Editor: That's interesting! It never occurred to me that even something as simple as pigment could have such a complex history. I suppose access really would change everything for the artist. Curator: Exactly. Preserving this vial offers a glimpse into the material culture of art history.