Rusty celadonRusty celadon

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Learn about Japan's traditional colors

2025.6.24

Can you read it? The traditional Japanese color "Sabi Celadon" is not pronounced "Shoseiji"










What is the traditional Japanese color "Rust Celadon"?




A dull celadon color with a light patina is called rust celadon. Rust is an oxide that forms when metal comes into contact with air, and iron produces reddish brown or black rust, while copper produces green or black rust. Color names that include rust are characterized by a lower saturation than the original color and a subdued texture. Rust also means aged beauty, and is connected to the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi.





Rusty celadon

 

In the Edo period, there were color names such as "Rust Soot Bamboo" and "Rust Iron Storehouse," but "Rust Celadon" is a fashionable color that appeared in the early Meiji period. "Rust Celadon" is pronounced "sabiseiji."







DIC Japanese Traditional Colors: R134 G166 B151 #86A697 / Rust Celadon




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.

 

 


Reference books: “Beautiful Japanese Traditional Colors” published by PIE International, “365 Days of Poons Illustrated Book” written by Reki Seikatsu and published by Genkosha

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Learn about Japan's traditional colors

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