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Learn about Japan's traditional colors

2024.7.2

Can you read it? The traditional Japanese color "Tekkan" is not pronounced "tekkan"










What is the traditional Japanese color "Iron Blue"?




The traditional color 'Tenkon' (iron blue) is a shade between 'iro' (iron blue) and 'navy blue', referring to a dark green color close to black. A similar shade was also called 'koiai' (dark indigo) during the Heian period. Navy blue is practical because it can be used until the dye becomes shallow, and because the fabric is 'katsu' (beaten) during the dyeing process, it is also considered to be a lucky 'color of victory'. For this reason, it was in demand as one of the most popular colors during the Edo period. It seems that 'Tenkon' (iron blue) appeared during the Edo period as one of the variations of navy blue.





Iron navy blue

 

The color of the sash used by Toyo University, famous for the Hakone Ekiden, is iron-blue. People who support Toyo University are also called "iron-blue fans." "Iron-blue" is pronounced "tetsukon-iro."







R123 G144 B210 #7B9/Iron Navy Blue




What is “Learn about Japan’s traditional colors”?
We will also introduce beautiful traditional Japanese colors, how to read their kanji, and the background behind the colors. Let's enjoy together the Japanese sensibilities that have been passed down since ancient times.

 

 


Reference books: “Beautiful Japanese Traditional Colors” published by PIE International, “365 Days of Poons Illustrated Book” written by Reki Seikatsu and published by Genkosha

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Learn about Japan's traditional colors

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