Good shades of violet are historically hard to come by. They must be mixed from other colors, and many pre-made violet paints do not last well once applied. But while many artists have given up on buying violet paints, oil enthusiasts need not resort to finding alternatives. This violet dioxazine (also known as "dioxazine purple") from renowned art supply manufacturer Winsor & Newton is a strong, reliable tint of violet that can be expected to last permanently once it dries. Left undiluted, this color is a dark purple that can be used as a substitute for black. Nevertheless, like most Winsor & Newton oils the violet dioxazine can also be easily mixed and lightened to various shades, usually mid-level purples.