What is the traditional Japanese color "Nishigurasaki"?
Nimurasaki refers to a dull, bluish reddish purple. In the early Edo period, honmurasaki made from safflower root was very expensive and its use was restricted. As an alternative dyeing method, the purple color was reproduced by dyeing the base with indigo and then layering madder or safflower on top, or by coloring the safflower with iron. As the name suggests, the color was named "Nimurasaki" because it was dyed to resemble honmurasaki. On the other hand, safflower dyeing is done using a mordant made from safflower root and camellia lye, and is said to be an advanced technique that took a long time and effort to complete.
Fake purple = Nisemurasaki
Purple, the color of which use was restricted, has been a symbol of "nobility" since ancient times. In Japan, the Twelve Ranks system was introduced during the Nara period, and purple was used as the color to indicate the highest rank of the government. In contrast, Nise Murasaki was a color that was widely used by commoners during the Edo period. "Nise Murasaki" is pronounced "nise murasaki."
DIC Japanese traditional colors: R86 G46 B55 #562E37 / Nisemurasaki (fake purple)
What is “Learn about Japan’s traditional colors”?
We will also introduce beautiful traditional Japanese colors, how to read their kanji, and the background behind the colors. Let's enjoy together the Japanese sensibilities that have been passed down since ancient times.
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Learn about Japan's traditional colors
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