Umber is a natural earth pigment that ranges in color from yellowish-brown to dark brown. It is composed mainly of iron oxide and manganese oxide, which give it its distinctive hue. Historically, umber has been used in art and painting, providing a warm, earthy tone that artists appreciate for its versatility and stability. There are two main types of umber: raw umber and burnt umber. Raw umber is the unheated form, while burnt umber is produced by heating raw umber, resulting in a darker and richer color. Both types are commonly used in oil paints, watercolors, and pastels.