What is black? An explanation of the origin, history, and color scheme of this traditional Japanese color.

What does "black" mean? Origin and etymology

The most widely accepted theory is that the word "black" originates from the word "kurashi," meaning "dark." As a color symbolizing the complete absence of light, that is, night and darkness, it has been deeply intertwined with people's lives since ancient times. In dyeing, black is broadly divided into two categories: those made from pigments mainly using ink or soot, and those made from plant dyes. In particular, plant dyes such as oak and betel nut were used.

Furthermore, the technique of obtaining black by reacting tannins contained in plants with iron has been seen since ancient times in practices such as "ohaguro" (blackening of teeth) and has become one of the fundamental techniques of black dyeing in Japan.

One of the most representative plant dyes used to produce black is "tsurubami." This dye is made by boiling the bark and fruit husks (acorn shells) of the sawtooth oak tree, and by using iron as a mordant, a deep, dark color close to black can be obtained. During the Heian period, clothing dyed with tsurubami was sometimes used for the emperor's robes, but later it became established as the color for monks and mourning clothes.

Thus, black is not a single dye, but a color that has been produced using various raw materials and techniques, and has shown diverse expressions depending on the era and its use.

The historical background of black

Black is a color that has been used in Japan since ancient times. Black patterns can be seen on pottery from the Jomon period, and black pigment was also used in murals from the Kofun period. In the Twelve Levels of Court Rank established by Prince Shōtoku during the Asuka period, black was the lowest-ranking color. This is said to be a uniquely Japanese interpretation, different from that of China, where black was a noble color representing the north and water in the Five Elements philosophy, which considers the origin of all things.

During the Heian period, black came to be primarily associated with mourning or with those who had renounced the secular world. However, from the Kamakura period onward, as the samurai became the center of society, the image of black changed dramatically. Samurai, who valued simplicity and strength, favored black as a color symbolizing unspoiled strength and an indomitable spirit, and they frequently used black lacquered armor and helmets. Black became a symbol of power and dignity.

During the Edo period, due to the sumptuary laws imposed by the shogunate, black, along with brown and gray, became popular among commoners. In particular, a black habutae silk kimono with five crests was considered the highest-ranking formal wear for men, and this custom has been passed down to the modern-day crested haori and hakama. Black, as a color that embodies both formality and sophistication, became deeply rooted in Japanese clothing culture.

Related literature, waka poetry, and seasonal words

In classical Japanese literature, black frequently appears as a color that signifies solemnity, sadness, or a mystical atmosphere. In "The Tale of Genji," there is a scene where Hikaru Genji wears black mourning clothes after the death of his beloved Murasaki no Ue, symbolizing his deep sorrow. Also, the ink-dyed robes worn by those who have renounced worldly life are often depicted as an important motif signifying their separation from the secular world.

While black is not a direct seasonal word in haiku, words that evoke black are sometimes used in the world of haiku. For example, "kurohae" (black south wind) is a summer seasonal word referring to a humid south wind accompanied by dark clouds that blows during the rainy season. Words such as "karasu" (crow) and "sumi" (ink) also play a role in evoking the image of black in seasonal scenes. These expressions demonstrate how black is integrated into the Japanese view of nature and aesthetics.

Even crows are as black as the winter moon.

Color scheme preview

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Black color scheme proposal

Practical Scenes

In the world of kimono, black is considered the most formal color. Women's black tomesode and men's black crested haori and hakama are the most formal attire worn at the most formal occasions, such as weddings and funerals. The vibrant patterns drawn on the black background and the white family crests stand out, playing a role in enhancing the dignity of the wearer.

In the fields of interior design and architecture, black is used to tighten a space and give it a sense of weight and modernity. Lacquered pillars and furniture, and black tiled roofs bring elegance and tranquility to traditional Japanese architecture. Even in contemporary interiors, incorporating black as an accent can create a sophisticated and luxurious space.

In graphic and web design, black plays a crucial role. Used as a background color, it makes other colors and elements stand out; when used as text color, it ensures high readability. Furthermore, it is effectively used in logos and product designs to convey brand images such as authority, luxury, and strength.

FAQ

Japanese colors similar to black