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Black Tar

Benjamin Moore · 2126-10

The Analysis

Black Tar is an ultra-deep charcoal that absorbs almost all light, making it the opposite of a brightening paint. Because of its very low LRV (4.07), it will visually pull your walls inward, making large rooms feel intimate or smaller spaces feel like a cozy, enclosed box.

This shade works best as a dramatic statement rather than a whole-home color. It is highly effective as a bold accent wall, a moody backdrop for art, or as a sophisticated choice for cabinetry and doors.

LRV 4

History & Origin

This is a strictly modern choice. While dark colors appear in historical design, the matte, near-black finish of Black Tar is firmly rooted in contemporary interior trends that favor high-contrast, graphic spaces.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

Use this in rooms where you want to lean into the darkness, such as home offices or dining rooms. Pair it with warm, natural wood tones to soften the edge, or brushed brass hardware to provide a sharp, high-end contrast.

The Mood

Living with this colour creates a grounded, serious, and quiet atmosphere that feels highly restful. It removes visual distractions and clutter, making it excellent for creating a distraction-free zone like a media room or a bedroom.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Mopboard Black

    Benjamin Moore · CW-680

  • Rebel

    Crown Paints

  • Black

    Crown Paints

  • Jet Black

    Crown Paints

  • Ebony King

    Benjamin Moore · 2132-20

  • Greenblack

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6994

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K