What is bistre?

Bistre is a brown pigment traditionally made from the soot of burnt wood, particularly from beech trees. It has been used in art and illustration since the 16th century, often for ink or watercolor. The pigment is valued for its warm, earthy tone, making it suitable for creating shadows and depth in artworks. Bistre can also refer to a color resembling the pigment, often described as a dark brown with a hint of yellow.