| Color name | crab shell blue |
|---|---|
| reading | Kaikakusei |
| pinyin | xiekeqing |
| HEX | #BBCDC5 |
| RGB | 187, 205, 197 |
What is "Kani-kao-sei"? Origin and etymology
The name "Kaikakusei" (蟹貝青) literally means "crab shell blue," and it comes from the color of a boiled crab shell.
Raw crab shells are dark green or brown, but when heated, they change to a calm, grayish-blue-green. Crab Shell Blue captures this subtle and appealing hue.
This color name perfectly reflects the traditional Chinese sense of color, which involves finding beauty in ordinary scenes of nature and naming them accordingly.
Historical background of Crab Shell Blue
The subdued shade of crab shell blue was particularly highly valued during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). During this period, "literati taste," which valued simple and refined beauty over ostentatious displays, flourished, and the quiet, profound hue of crab shell blue resonated deeply with this aesthetic.
In stark contrast to the vibrant colors used in the royal court, it was favored by scholars who immersed themselves in contemplation in their studies. They may have found true beauty in nature, and perhaps they sensed a spirituality and tranquility, detached from the mundane world, in colors like crabshell blue.
Crab shell blue in Chinese art and crafts
The crab shell blue hue is particularly beautiful in the world of Chinese art, especially ceramics. Celadon fired at kilns such as the Longquan kiln during the Song dynasty features a deep, serene blue-green glaze similar to crab shell blue, and its dignified appearance has been cherished by emperors and literati throughout history. It is a refined hue that is close to the colors of famous celadon such as "Tianqing" and "Fenqing."
Furthermore, in ink painting, pale crab shell blue is sometimes effectively used to depict distant scenery, mist, and still water surfaces when painting landscapes. When combined with the black of the ink, it creates depth and a poetic feeling in the painting.
In the realm of fashion culture, such subdued colors were favored for Hanfu, the everyday attire of literati and intellectuals. While restraining in its ostentation, the crab shell blue dyed onto high-quality silk fabric quietly conveyed the wearer's intelligence and refinement.
It looks like it's gone, it's like ``crab shell blue'', it's what I remember, it's there, it's the scenery outside, it's like I don't want to run in one place, it's clear when I see it.
Color scheme preview
This is to check the readability of the text when this color is used as the background.
Crab Shell Blue Color Scheme Proposal
Moon white (#EAF4F4)
The quiet blue-green of crab shell blue, combined with the pure white of moon white, creates a very elegant and sophisticated impression. It's a calm and intellectual color scheme reminiscent of a tranquil lakeside on a moonlit night.
Coral beads (#F58F7B)
The calm, cool-toned crab shell blue is combined with the warm-toned coral beads, creating a vibrant impression as the two colors complement each other. With a classic yet modern feel, it effectively serves as an eye-catching accent.
Pilestone (#995A36)
The combination of the natural beauty of crab shell blue and the earth-like ochre creates a very stable and calming space. It is a simple yet profound and richly flavorful color scheme.
Practical Scenes
Incorporating crab shell blue into your interior design brings a sense of calm and intellectual sophistication to any space. Using it over large areas such as wallpaper, curtains, or sofas makes it ideal for quiet, relaxing studies or bedrooms. Combining it with moon white, off-white, or warm wood tones creates a natural and refined atmosphere.
In fashion, using this color in coats, suits, or dresses creates an elegant, understated yet strong style. The exquisite shade, neither too flashy nor too plain, is also suitable for business settings where you want to project an intellectual image. Adding warm-toned accessories, such as coral beads, as accents will create an even more refined look.
In web design, using it as a background color allows for a minimalist design that is easy on the eyes and makes the content stand out. It is particularly well-suited to websites themed around traditional crafts, art, and lifestyle, and helps to express a calm and sophisticated atmosphere.