If you’ve ever stared at a Warhammer table and found your eyes drawn to a miniature army with sleek armor shimmering in deep, sinister purple—chances are, you were looking at the legendary Drukhari Leviathan Purple. This rich and menacing shade has long been a favorite among hobbyists, not only because of its striking appearance but also because of the character it brings to the Drukhari faction.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Leviathan Purple so special, how to paint with it effectively, the tools you’ll need, and the most popular color schemes to pair it with. You’ll also learn about common painting mistakes to avoid and find answers to frequently asked questions about this fan-favorite hue.
What Is Drukhari Leviathan Purple?
Drukhari Leviathan Purple isn’t your everyday violet—it’s a deep, commanding shade that reflects both elegance and malice. Designed for Warhammer’s Drukhari (Dark Eldar) army, it captures the essence of their lore: sophisticated yet vicious, beautiful yet dangerous.
Origins in the Warhammer Universe
The Drukhari hail from the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40K universe. They are fast, cruel, and utterly merciless. Their armor, ships, and weapons often carry shades of dark purples, jet blacks, and shimmering metallics. Leviathan Purple became their unofficial signature because it conveys their aesthetic perfectly—an intoxicating blend of nobility and menace.
Why Leviathan Purple Stands Out
In color psychology, purple represents power, mystery, and authority—making it a natural fit for the Drukhari. Unlike bright purples that feel cheerful, Leviathan Purple is darker, moodier, and instantly intimidating. On a gaming table, it doesn’t just stand out—it commands attention.
How to Use Drukhari Leviathan Purple in Painting
Painting with this shade is all about layering, depth, and contrast. If you want your Drukhari to look as deadly as they are in the lore, you need to apply it with patience and precision.
Preparing Your Miniatures
Before you even dip your brush into the paint, make sure your miniatures are ready:
- Clean thoroughly – Remove mold lines with a hobby knife.
- Wash off residue – A quick rinse in soapy water removes factory oils.
- Prime smartly – Use a black or dark grey primer to enhance the richness of the purple.
Applying the First Coat
Thin your paint slightly with water for smoother coverage. Apply two or three light coats of Leviathan Purple rather than one thick layer—this preserves the miniature’s fine details.
Layering and Highlighting
Once the base coat is dry, mix Leviathan Purple with a touch of lighter purple or pink. Apply this to raised edges and armor plates to create highlights. You’ll be amazed at how much this adds dimension to your model.
Blending with Other Colors
Leviathan Purple plays well with other shades:
- Black – A stealthy, assassin-like vibe.
- Gold – A rich, regal effect.
- Turquoise – A sci-fi alien flair.
Recommended Paints and Tools
Citadel Paints Overview
Games Workshop’s Xereus Purple and Genestealer Purple are excellent companions for Leviathan Purple washes. Use them for layering, highlighting, or blending.
Alternatives to Citadel Paints
If Citadel paints aren’t available, Vallejo’s Royal Purple and The Army Painter’s Alien Purple work as excellent substitutes.
Popular Drukhari Leviathan Purple Schemes
Classic Dark Aesthetic
Deep purples with black armor trims and silver weapons create a sinister and stealthy force.
Bright and Contrasting Accents
Pair purple with bright lime green or neon blue to give your army an eerie, alien presence.
Metallic and Shimmer Effects
Use metallic purples, silvers, and golds for a more ornate, elite appearance that catches the light beautifully.
Mistakes to Avoid When Painting with Leviathan Purple
- Too thick coats – You’ll lose detail fast.
- Skipping highlights – Makes the purple look flat and lifeless.
- Wrong primer color – Light primers can make Leviathan Purple look washed out.
FAQs About Drukhari Leviathan Purple
Q1: Is Leviathan Purple still in production?
A: Some paint ranges have discontinued it, but you can find close matches in other brands.
Q2: Best primer color for Leviathan Purple?
A: Black or dark grey for maximum depth.
Q3: Can other factions use it?
A: Yes—Chaos, Tyranids, or fantasy armies look great in it.
Q4: How do I make it pop?
A: Use sharp highlights and contrasting accent colors.
Q5: Good brush sizes for painting Drukhari?
A: Medium brushes for base coats, fine tips for details.
Q6: Can I use airbrushing with Leviathan Purple?
A: Absolutely—it gives smooth, even coverage.
Conclusion
Drukhari Leviathan Purple is more than just a paint—it’s a personality for your army. Rich, dark, and endlessly versatile, it captures the sinister grace of the Drukhari while giving you room to experiment with bold, eye-catching schemes. Whether you stick to the classic look or push the boundaries with vibrant contrasts, Leviathan Purple ensures your miniatures will turn heads at any game night.
