Abstract: Matting of polymeric pigmented coatings not only decreases the gloss of surfaces but also affects their colour and rheological properties. For this reason, it is important to study the changes in colour and rheology of coatings caused by adding a matting agent. Blue, green and white alkyd lacquers and pure silica as matting have been investigated regarding this purpose. The obtained results showed that after a saturation point, the alterations in colour and rheology change their direction. The optical processes effecting these alterations are discussed.