| Color name | mouse |
|---|---|
| reading | soshu |
| pinyin | shuxu |
| HEX | #47484C |
| RGB | 71, 72, 76 |
What is a rat? Origin and etymology
Soshu, as its name suggests, is a deep gray color that is very close to black, derived from the color of a mouse's whiskers.
It's not just a simple black; it's characterized by a vibrant hue that subtly changes in sheen and color depending on the light. This delicate color name originated from the keen observational skills of ancient China, which found beauty in the minute details of the natural world.
The background of this color is deeply connected to the brushes used in calligraphy. In particular, the "soshuhitsu" brush, made from collected rat whiskers, was highly valued by calligraphers throughout history as a top-quality brush that combined elasticity and flexibility.
Therefore, the color name "Nezumi" (鼠须) not only refers to the color of an animal, but also has an intellectual and cultural connotation that evokes the study of a literary figure or a time of quiet contemplation.
Historical background of the rat
The cultural value of the gray color is inextricably linked to the legend of Wang Xizhi, the Sage of Calligraphy during the Jin Dynasty. The anecdote of his fondness for gray brushes has been widely passed down through generations, and the gray brush has become more than just a writing instrument; it has come to symbolize the ideal of calligraphy.
This legend gave the word "nezumi" (鼠须) special meanings, such as exceptional skill or refined taste.
During the Tang and Song dynasties, literati culture flourished even further. For literati who viewed poetry, calligraphy, and painting as an integrated whole, acquiring excellent "Four Treasures of the Study" (brush, ink, paper, and inkstone) was an important activity for enhancing their own spirituality.
Among these, the gray-grain brush was considered a supreme masterpiece, and its understated yet profound image resonated with the Song dynasty's aesthetic sensibilities, which disliked ostentation and valued inner richness. Although there are not many records of it being widely used as a dye, it is thought to have held an important cultural position as a color symbolizing intelligence and dignity.
Mouse in Chinese Art and Crafts
The art forms most closely associated with the color Nezumi are undoubtedly calligraphy and ink painting. The moisture, blurring, and variations in shading of the ink strokes produced by the Nezumi brush—that very world of ink is the background for this color.
In sumi-e (ink painting), it is said that "ink has five colors," meaning that a single black can create an infinite range of tones. Among these, gray can be seen as a particularly deep and vibrant shade.
In clothing culture, it is imagined that subdued, dark grays like mouse gray were used in the clothing of scholars and officials who disliked ostentation, or in the attire of Taoist priests who valued spirituality. In particular, such understated colors were favored in the aesthetic sensibilities of the Song dynasty, which pursued a simple and refined beauty.
Furthermore, in the world of ceramics, one can find a beauty in the deep, lustrous black and dark gray glazes seen in black glazes and Tenmoku tea bowls that is similar to that of Nezumi.
Nezumi tube, ivory tube, brush inkstone practice for 50 years.
Color scheme preview
This is to check the readability of the text when this color is used as the background.
Color scheme suggestion for mouse
Tsukihaku (#EAF4FC)
The richness of the gray and the pure brightness of the light blue create a beautiful contrast. This combination is perfect for a quiet study at night, or when you want to create an intellectual and sophisticated impression reminiscent of an ink painting.
赭石 (#A75347)
The warmth and historical reddish hue of the ochre stone adds depth to the cool impression of the gray. It also evokes the color of the ink used in traditional calligraphy and painting, creating a dignified and calm atmosphere.
Pine flower (#B3D47A)
The vibrant, youthful green of the pine blossom stands out against the inorganic impression of the gray. The color scheme evokes a natural and tranquil harmony, like young leaves sprouting on a quiet rock face.
Practical Scenes
In interior design, incorporating gray into accent walls, sofas, rugs, etc., brings a sense of calm and sophistication to a space. It is particularly suitable for places where you want to spend time quietly, such as studies and bedrooms, and is a color that goes very well with Japanese modern and minimalist styles.
In fashion, choosing a gray coat or jacket instead of black creates a softer, more refined impression. It's a subtle color that exudes a sense of dignity, making it versatile for a wide range of occasions, from business settings to formal events. It also works excellently as a base color to complement other colors.
In web and graphic design, using this color as a background or text color can convey a sense of reliability and professionalism. Its beautiful contrast with white or light colors makes it suitable for websites and projects that maintain readability while creating an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere.