The Windsor and Newton company created the Kolinsky sable brush in 1866 on a commission for Queen Victoria. She was a dedicated painter of watercolours and used the brushes to create portraits of her family and the landscapes around her that only she was privileged to enjoy. The Kolinsky (Mustela Sibirica) is the name of a particular variety of marten (part of the weasel family) that is found only in Siberia. The fibres of the hair from this animal are thin, very soft and have a long taper making them excellent for use in paintbrushes.
Kolinsky sable brushes are of excellent quality and longevity and are made with the finest Kolinsky hair that is fixed into a rust proof, nickel plated holder that is attached to black polished handles. The brushes are particularly suited for painting and can be used with a wide variety of media including watercolours.