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Watercolor Paints
Watercolors have been used in some form since prehistoric times when pigments were applied to cave walls. Watercolor Chinese painting was developed in China 4,000 years ago. The media emerged in the West along with the process of papermaking in teh 15th and 16th centuries, although a form of water based painting was used on frescoes (see tempera medium). At this time, with the exception of a few artists, it was relegated mostly to preparatory sketches. It wasn't until the 18th century in Europe that watercolor began to become popular with artists.
Watercolors are ground pigment mixed with gum arabic (and various other additives). The amount of pigment can vary considerably; paints come in many grades, or qualities. Watercolors can be found in tubes or pans, both can be of student or professional quality.
John Frederick Lewis; Asking for Alms; 1833; Watercolour with scratching out heightened with bodycolour and gum arabic
John Singer Sargent; Gondoliers' Siesta; watercolor; 1904
Paul Klee; In den Hausem von St Germain; Watercolor; 1914; Zentrum Paul Klee, Bern
The above images are in the public domain.
Some sites with history of watercolors:
Art Mine History of Watercolor
Web Exhibits - Introduction to Watercolor
Some tips and techniques about watercolors:
5 Watercolor Techniques
Handprint Guide to Watercolor
Some artists of the past who worked with watercolors:
J M W Turner and John Ruskin
Albrecht Durer - NGA
Audubon Art
Some contemporary artists who work with watercolors:
Mary Mosblech
Joe Cartwright
David Hoffrichter
Watercolours
50 Beautiful Watercolor Paintings
Watercolor Artists
American Watercolor Society