What is the traditional Japanese color "crimson"?
Crimson is a deep crimson red obtained by dyeing with safflower. Originally, it was called "Kurenoai" (Kure-indigo) as a dye brought from the country of Wu, but gradually it became "Kurenai", and during the Nara period, it came to be written as "Kanko" (Karakuen) or "Karako" (Chinese red) to express its value and beauty as an imported product. It is also called "Yassio of Beni" (Red eight salts), indicating that it is a time-consuming technique that requires eight layers of dyeing to achieve the deep color. Crimson is a color that represents the pinnacle of dyeing technology, and the beauty of the deep red was the object of admiration for people at the time. Safflower dyeing requires a large number of petals, making it a costly color.
Deep red = Don't be shy
Safflower is a thistle-like plant native to Egypt and belongs to the Asteraceae family. It was introduced to Japan in the 5th and 6th centuries and was widely used as a dye. "Deep red" is pronounced "kokikurenaito."
DIC Japanese traditional colors: R208G16B76#D0104C/Deep red
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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