| Japanese color name | Mulberry tea |
|---|---|
| reading | kuwacha |
| HEX | #C99833 |
| RGB | 201, 152, 51 |
What is mulberry tea? Origin and etymology
As its name suggests, mulberry tea is a slightly reddish, dull yellow color derived from dyes made from mulberry leaves. Mulberry leaves have been cultivated for sericulture since ancient times, but the leaves, bark, and root bark have also been used as dyes. By dyeing with a decoction of mulberry leaves and using lye or iron as a mordant, a variety of colors can be obtained, ranging from yellow to reddish-brown and even greenish hues.
Mulberry tea specifically refers to a brownish-yellowish color, and is counted as one of the "48 shades of brown and 100 shades of gray" that were popular during the Edo period.
Historical background of mulberry tea
During the mid-Edo period, sumptuary laws frequently issued by the shogunate restricted commoners from using silk fabrics, gold and silver threads, and flashy colors such as purple and crimson. Within these constraints, people found subtle differences in shades of muted colors like brown and gray, and developed a culture of appreciating these subtle nuances as "chic" or "refined." Mulberry tea was one of the colors that emerged during this trend, and like other shades of brown, it is said to have been widely favored by the townspeople of Edo.
In particular, it is said that the trend spread among ordinary people after popular Kabuki actors used it in their stage costumes.
Related literature, waka poetry, and seasonal words
It is difficult to pinpoint any famous waka poems or literary works that directly feature the color name "kuwacha" (mulberry tea). However, "mulberry," the raw material for dye, has long been deeply rooted in Japanese literature and life, and poems about mulberry in relation to sericulture can be found in the Manyoshu (Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves). As a seasonal word, "mulberry" and "mulberry fruit" represent summer, evoking images of lush mulberry fields and vibrant early summer scenery. The calm hue of kuwacha also has a charm that suggests the passing of summer and the transition towards autumn.
Color scheme preview
This is to check the readability of the text when this color is used as the background.
Color scheme proposal for mulberry tea
Aphrodisiac tea (#715C1F)
Like mulberry tea, this brown-based color was popular during the Edo period. The deep greenish-brown of Kobuchi tea complements the yellowish tones of mulberry tea, creating a sophisticated Japanese atmosphere. The resulting color scheme is both unified and has depth.
Navy blue (#192F60)
The yellowish-brown of mulberry tea and the deep, calming blue of navy blue are almost complementary colors that enhance each other. The addition of navy blue tightens the overall look, giving it an intelligent and modern impression. It is a traditional yet fresh combination.
Generated color (#FBF9F4)
The natural and simple atmosphere of mulberry tea is enhanced by the gentle and soft off-white hues. This color scheme creates a natural and warm space, evoking a sense of comfort and tranquility. It's a versatile combination that's easy to use in interior design and fashion.
Practical Scenes
In the world of traditional Japanese clothing, mulberry tea has long been used as a color for kimonos, obi sashes, and haori jackets. This calm and dignified shade can be worn elegantly by people of all ages. When combined with other shades of brown or green, it creates a sophisticated look that embodies the "chic" spirit of Edo.
In interior design, incorporating mulberry tea into wallpaper, curtains, and furniture can create a calm and modern Japanese atmosphere. It pairs particularly well with natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and Japanese paper, making it ideal for creating a warm and relaxing ambiance.
In web and graphic design, using it as a background or accent color can convey a sense of reliability and tradition. When used on the websites of established companies, brands dealing with natural materials, or on the packaging of organic products, it can effectively communicate a sense of security and quality to users.