The process of cleaning oil painting tools, specifically the bristles used to apply pigment, involves removing residual color and medium. Effective removal preserves the tool’s integrity and ensures consistent performance across multiple painting sessions. This task is fundamental to oil painting practices.
Proper tool maintenance extends the life of the brush, offering long-term cost savings and reducing waste. Furthermore, clean bristles prevent unwanted color contamination in subsequent paintings, allowing for accurate and predictable color mixing. Historically, artists have employed various techniques to achieve this, reflecting the enduring importance of meticulous brush care.