| Japanese color name | scented color |
|---|---|
| reading | kouiro |
| HEX | #EFCD9A |
| RGB | 239, 205, 154 |
What is "Kōshoku"? Origin and etymology
Kouiro, as the name suggests, is a color name derived from the fact that it was dyed with fragrant wood. The main dyes used were said to be the bark and resin of fragrant trees such as cloves, agarwood, and aloeswood. Cloves, in particular, are a spice made from the dried buds of a plant in the Myrtaceae family and have been highly valued as a dye since ancient times. Because these fragrant woods were extremely precious and expensive, Kouiro was considered a color that symbolized people of high social standing.
In reality, cloves were used as the main dye, and subtle shades were adjusted by combining them with other dyes such as Japanese safflower and madder.
Historical background of incense color
Incense color was extremely popular among the aristocracy during the Heian period. The nobility of the time had a custom of infusing their clothes with incense, and clothing dyed with incense wood in this color exuded elegance through both its fragrance and color. It frequently appears in literary works such as "The Tale of Genji," where it is depicted as the color of clothing worn by noble figures. Because incense wood was also used in Buddhist rituals, this color is believed to have also carried religious connotations of purity and sanctity.
During the Edo period, due to the influence of sumptuary laws, subdued brown tones became popular, and the color of incense became widely known to the general public.
Related literature, waka poetry, and seasonal words
Incense color is known as one of the important colors that adorn Heian literature. In "The Tale of Genji," many characters, including Hikaru Genji and Murasaki no Ue, are depicted wearing incense-colored clothing, suggesting their nobility and high level of education. In particular, in the "Plum Branch" chapter, the color appears in clothing related to incense during the incense-matching ceremony.
Furthermore, Sei Shonagon's "The Pillow Book" also contains descriptions such as "fragrant-dyed robes," suggesting how sophisticated the color of incense was treated in the court culture of the time. While the color of incense itself is not a seasonal word, its ingredients and the culture of its fragrance have been celebrated in the world of waka poetry as a theme symbolizing elegance and refinement.
Color scheme preview
This is to check the readability of the text when this color is used as the background.
Color scheme proposal for incense
Two indigo (#915C8B)
Both Koshoku and Niai are noble colors that were favored by the aristocracy of the Heian period. By combining the refined Koshoku with the elegant and deep purple-toned Niai, a classic and refined impression can be strongly created.
Clove color (#B98C46)
This color combination is named after the clove, a dye used to create a fragrant hue. Because they are similar in color, a sense of unity is achieved, resulting in a calm and elegant color scheme. It is suitable for designs that want to emphasize a Japanese aesthetic.
Gray (#D9E052)
The combination of a soft, gentle yellowish-brown color and a youthful yellowish-green color creates a bright, vibrant impression reminiscent of spring budding. The resulting color scheme has a natural and approachable feel.
Practical Scenes
In the world of kimono, the color "ko-iro" (incense color) is used for formal visiting kimonos, solid-colored kimonos, and obi sashes, creating a subtle yet elegant atmosphere. It harmonizes well with other colors and is particularly compatible with classical patterns. It is considered a suitable color for occasions where calmness and dignity are required, such as tea ceremonies.
In interior design, incorporating aromatic colors into fabrics such as wallpaper, curtains, and cushions can create a warm and tranquil space. They pair exceptionally well with wooden furniture and natural materials, contributing to a relaxing and natural atmosphere.
In web design, using these colors as background or accent colors can give the entire site a gentle and trustworthy impression. They are particularly effective in expressing the worldview of websites themed around Japanese traditions and high-quality services, such as traditional crafts, Japanese sweets, and luxury inns.