Introduction
Warhammer 40K hobbyists know the Drukhari, also called the Dark Eldar, as one of the most sinister and enigmatic factions in the grimdark universe. Their spiked armor, sinister vehicles, and cruel aesthetics make them a favorite for players who want their army to look as dangerous as it plays. But when it comes to painting them, one color often captures the perfect balance of menace and elegance—Leviathan Purple.
This guide explores Drukhari Leviathan Purple as a painting choice: why it works, how to apply it, and the techniques hobbyists use to make this color scheme come alive. If you’re searching for inspiration to make your Dark Eldar raiding force stand out, you’ve come to the right place.
Why Leviathan Purple for Drukhari?
Leviathan Purple isn’t just a color—it’s a shade of mystery, power, and cruelty. Let’s break down why it’s such a popular choice for Drukhari players.
1. Symbolism of Purple in Warhammer 40K
Purple has always carried a sense of:
-
Regality and dominance (echoing the Drukhari’s ruling cabals).
-
Mysticism and fear (perfect for a faction steeped in cruelty and psychic undertones).
-
Unnatural beauty (darkly elegant, much like the Drukhari themselves).
2. A Contrast Against the Grimdark Setting
While many 40K factions lean into reds, blacks, and metallics, purple offers a unique way to stand out while still keeping that sinister vibe. When combined with metallic edges and glowing highlights, Leviathan Purple creates a visual feast that pops both on the tabletop and in display cases.
Understanding Leviathan Purple as a Paint
Before we dive into techniques, it’s worth exploring what Leviathan Purple actually is.
1. The Classic Wash
Originally, Leviathan Purple was a Citadel Wash from Games Workshop. It’s now discontinued but fondly remembered for its rich depth and smooth shading.
-
It was often used to shade silvers and golds, giving them a cold, alien gleam.
-
Hobbyists also applied it directly over white or bone to create a vibrant, otherworldly purple.
2. Modern Alternatives
Since the wash is no longer in production, painters often use substitutes like:
-
Druchii Violet (Citadel Shade)
-
Army Painter Purple Tone
-
Vallejo Violet Ink
Combined with layering, glazing, and edge highlighting, these paints can replicate or even surpass the original Leviathan Purple look.
Building a Drukhari Army in Leviathan Purple
1. Choosing the Basecoat
To make purple shine, the right basecoat matters. Options include:
-
Black Primer → Creates a deep, sinister look.
-
Grey Primer → Balances vibrancy with darkness.
-
White Primer → Makes the purple more vivid and alien-like.
2. Applying Leviathan Purple Wash
The key technique is controlled washes:
-
Apply thin layers rather than flooding the model.
-
Allow recesses to deepen while raised edges stay lighter.
-
Repeat layers in darker areas for richer contrast.
3. Layering and Highlights
After shading, it’s time to bring the purple armor to life:
-
Use Xereus Purple or Naggaroth Night as mid-tones.
-
Highlight with Genestealer Purple or Pink Horror on sharp edges.
-
Add extreme edge highlights with Pallid Wych Flesh for contrast.
4. Complementary Colors
To enhance Leviathan Purple, pair it with:
-
Black (for armor plates, weapons).
-
Turquoise or Teal (for soulstones, runes, or energy effects).
-
Bone/Off-White (for skin, spikes, and trophies).
-
Metallics (silver or brass with a purple wash for alien gleam).
Units That Shine in Leviathan Purple
1. Kabalite Warriors
The infantry backbone of any Drukhari army looks stunning in deep purple armor with turquoise glow effects.
2. Wyches
The gladiators of Commorragh benefit from a lighter purple with pink highlights, emphasizing speed and flamboyance.
3. Incubi
Clad in sleek armor, Incubi look terrifying when painted in purple-black gradients, enhanced by glowing weapon edges.
4. Raider and Ravager Vehicles
Large surfaces like sails and hulls provide room for blended purple gradients—perfect for airbrushing Leviathan Purple effects.
5. Archons and Succubi
Leaders deserve more flair: rich purple cloaks, highlighted with subtle magentas and violet edge work, making them the true stars of your force.
Advanced Techniques for Leviathan Purple
1. Glazing for Smooth Transitions
Instead of layering, many painters use glazes of thinned purple to create smooth blends. This is particularly effective on curved armor plates.
2. OSL (Object Source Lighting) Effects
Purple glows can look eerie when used for:
-
Weapons (blades infused with dark energy).
-
Eyes (sinister alien stares).
-
Engines (void-powered skimmers with purple thrusters).
3. Wet Blending
On larger surfaces, like a Raider’s hull, wet blending allows you to create gradients from dark purple shadows to bright violet highlights.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Over-saturating the model: Too much purple without contrast can make the miniature look flat. Always balance with blacks, metallics, or bone tones.
-
Skipping highlights: Purple armor needs sharp highlights to pop—otherwise, it looks muddy.
-
Thick washes: Flooding with Leviathan Purple creates blotches. Multiple thin coats work better.
Leviathan Purple in Army Themes
1. The Regal Cabal
Deep Leviathan Purple armor with golden trim evokes aristocracy and power. Perfect for Archons leading grand raiding parties.
2. The Alien Horror
Pair purple with acidic greens and glowing teal to make your Drukhari look less regal and more otherworldly.
3. The Shadow Raiders
For a darker, stealthier look, mix Leviathan Purple with black gradients. This makes your force appear like shadows moving across the battlefield.
Tips for Beginners
-
Start with a small squad—like Kabalite Warriors—before tackling larger vehicles.
-
Use contrast paints like Shyish Purple for quick results.
-
Don’t be afraid to experiment with metallic purples for weapons or armor trim.
-
Always seal your miniatures with a matte varnish to preserve that sinister finish.
Why Drukhari in Leviathan Purple Stand Out on the Tabletop
When painted with this scheme, your army will:
-
Draw eyes immediately thanks to the striking purple hue.
-
Reflect the Drukhari’s character—sinister yet regal.
-
Offer endless variation in highlights, washes, and complementary tones.
Whether you’re a competitive player or a collector, Leviathan Purple helps your models look unique and unforgettable.
Conclusion
Painting Drukhari in Leviathan Purple isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. The color evokes the cruel majesty of Commorragh, giving your models both dark elegance and battlefield menace. With careful layering, controlled washes, and thoughtful highlights, your army will embody everything the Drukhari stand for: beauty, cruelty, and power.
So grab your brushes, prep your miniatures, and let Leviathan Purple be the color that defines your army’s legacy in the grimdark future of Warhammer 40K.
