quick-drying black varnish used for metal, particularly iron, stoves, fenders, and surfaces of indoor equipment. Because of its bitumen content, the coating is highly protective and the finish is attractive and reasonably durable.

Melted bitumen, or natural asphalt, is dissolved in a solvent of suitable boiling point (white spirit or turpentine). If common rosin (colophony) is included, the lustre of the black finish is increased, but, unless the amount is carefully controlled, the durability of the residual film will suffer, either cracking on aging or softening with heat. If boiled linseed oil is added with the bitumen, tougher films result. For exterior protection, more elaborate formulations may be needed.