| Color name | lacquer black |
|---|---|
| reading | black |
| pinyin | qihei |
| HEX | #161823 |
| RGB | 22, 24, 35 |
What is "Urushikuro"? Origin and etymology
Shikkoku, as the name suggests, refers to a deep, lustrous black color that is "as black as lacquer."
The origin of this color lies in lacquer, a natural resin that has been used in crafts since ancient times. Black lacquer, produced by refining collected tree sap and adding iron and other elements, is not just any black. It possesses a depth that seems to absorb light, combined with a unique, moist luster.
The color name "urushikuro" (lacquered black) does not simply describe the state of being black, but rather expresses the smooth, deep, and dignified beauty found on the surface of lacquerware.
The historical background of jet black
The history of lacquer use in China is very old, with lacquerware unearthed from Neolithic sites. In particular, during the Han dynasty, lacquerware manufacturing technology reached its peak, and it was highly valued among the court and nobility as a luxury item comparable to gold and silver.
At the time, the basic colors for lacquerware were black and red (vermilion), and lacquer black was one of the most important colors. Due to its dignified and solemn hue, it was favored for special items such as ceremonial objects and the coffins of powerful figures, and was considered a color that symbolized authority and dignity.
Furthermore, in Taoist thought, black was associated with the concept of "Xuan," which represents the origin of all things. The unfathomable depth of jet black is thought to have taken on philosophical significance as a color that evokes the mystery and profoundness of the universe.
Black lacquer in Chinese art and crafts
The beauty of jet black is best showcased in the world of lacquerware. Techniques such as "byokin" (drawing patterns with gold or silver powder) and "raden" (inlaying with mother-of-pearl) make the patterns shine brightly against the deep darkness of the jet black, creating a fantastical beauty.
The black of "ink" used in calligraphy and ink painting is similar to, yet slightly different from, the black of "shikkuro" (lacquer black). While ink displays a variety of expressions through its shades and blurring, shikkuro refers to a uniform, deep black. However, just as the lustrous black of characters written with the finest ink is sometimes described as "like shikkuro," the two share a common aesthetic.
In the field of fashion, just as Qin Shi Huang designated black as the noblest color, it was used as the color of formal attire worn by emperors and high-ranking officials, conveying dignity and elegance. The combination of the luster of silk fabric and the depth of jet black created an outfit that eloquently spoke of the wearer's status.
Color scheme preview
This is to check the readability of the text when this color is used as the background.
Jet black color scheme proposal
Vermillion (#FF4D4F)
The deep, rich black and the vibrant vermilion complement each other, creating a powerful and noble impression. This is a traditional and dignified color scheme that has been seen in lacquerware since ancient times.
Moon White (#D9E4E8)
The combination of deep, dark night black and soft, moonlight-like white expresses a serene and fantastical worldview, creating a sophisticated and minimalist impression.
Matsuka Midori (#B0C97F)
The deep, jet-black darkness complements the youthful vitality of the pine and flower green, creating a calm, refined natural beauty. This color scheme gives a modern and intellectual impression.
Practical Scenes
Using jet black in interior design brings a sense of weight and depth to a space. It is particularly effective when incorporated into accent walls, high-end furniture, and fixtures such as doors. Combining it with metal materials such as brass and gold creates a modern and luxurious atmosphere. Because its appearance changes depending on how the light hits it, using indirect lighting effectively will further enhance the lustrous quality of jet black.
In fashion, incorporating jet black into formal dresses and coats can express refined elegance and sophistication. Shiny materials such as silk, velvet, and leather, in particular, bring out the beauty of jet black to its fullest. Adding accents of vermilion or gold with accessories, in addition to an all-black ensemble, creates a glamorous and striking style.
In web and graphic design, using jet black as a background color helps to make content stand out and convey a sense of luxury and professionalism. By setting the text color to white or light gold, it is possible to create a dramatic and memorable page while maintaining high readability.