When was colour invented?

Introduction

Colour, or color, is an integral part of our daily lives. From the clothes we wear to the food we eat, colour surrounds us and plays a crucial role in how we perceive the world around us. But when was colour first discovered and invented by human beings? The answer to this question is not as simple as it may seem, as the invention of colour is a gradual process that has occurred over time.

The natural origins of color – Red ochre

The origins of color can be traced back to the natural world, with early humans observing and mimicking the colors found in nature. One of the earliest and most basic pigments used by early humans was red ochre. This naturally occurring mineral can be found in many different forms and was used by early humans to create a variety of hues, including red, yellow, and black.

The significance of red ochre in early human history cannot be overstated, as it was used for both practical and ceremonial purposes. For example, prehistoric cave paintings discovered in Africa, Europe and Australia, contain the use of red ochre.

The use of red ochre can also be found in ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Greeks, where it was used as a cosmetic and a dye for fabrics. The discovery of red ochre deposits by early humans would have been a significant event, as it provided a readily available source of pigment for cave paintings, body art, and other uses.

The development of color theory – Color theory

The invention of colour is not a singular event, it is a gradual process that has occurred over time. As human understanding of color evolved, so too did the development of color theory. Famous color theorists such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Sir Isaac Newton made significant contributions to the understanding of color and how it interacts with the human eye.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in his book “Theory of Colours” published in 1810, argued that the perception of color is not just the result of the spectral composition of light but is also affected by the observer’s ability to see colors.

He proposed that the eye’s perception of color is not just the result of the physical properties of light but is also affected by the observer’s ability to see colors. He also proposed that colors can be divided into two types: “physiological colors”, which are the colors that are seen by the eye, and “physical colors”, which are the colors that are seen by the light.

Sir Isaac Newton in his book “Opticks” published in 1704, argued that the colors of the spectrum are not arbitrary, but rather that they are the result of the physical properties of light. Newton observed that when white light is passed through a prism, it is separated into its component colors, creating a spectrum of colors.

He also proposed that there are three primary colors: red, blue, and yellow, and that all other colors can be created by mixing these primary colors in different ways. This theory is the foundation of our modern understanding of color and forms the basis of the color wheel.

The use of basic pigments – Burnt charcoal

In addition to red ochre, early humans also used other basic pigments such as burnt charcoal. This simple black pigment was used to create the contrast necessary for early cave paintings. The use of burnt charcoal in prehistoric cave paintings provides insight into the early human understanding of color and the way that different colors were used to create meaning.

Burnt charcoal was also used as a pigment in early human cultures, for example the ancient Egyptians used it as a pigment for their hieroglyphics.

The concept of primary colors – Primary colors

The concept of primary colors is an important aspect of color theory. Primary colors are the colors that are considered to be the foundation of all other colors. They are typically referred to as red, blue, and yellow and are considered to be the building blocks of color. Early humans likely had a basic understanding of primary colors and how they interacted with one another. This understanding was likely based on observation and experimentation, and it forms the foundation of our modern understanding of color.

In color theory, primary colors are used in color mixing, the primary colors when mixed together in equal amounts will produce a secondary color. For example, mixing red and blue together will produce purple. Mixing primary colors in different amounts will produce different shades of secondary colors.

The human perception of color – Human color perception

The human perception of color is another important aspect of the invention of color. The way that the human eye perceives color is a complex process that is not fully understood. The eye contains specialized cells called cones and rods that are responsible for detecting light and color. The cones are responsible for detecting color, while the rods are responsible for detecting light.

The human eye is capable of distinguishing between a wide range of colors, but the exact number of colors that can be perceived is still a subject of debate among scientists. Some estimates suggest that the human eye can perceive millions of different colors, while others suggest that the number is much lower.

The human perception of color is also affected by the surrounding colors and lighting. This is known as simultaneous contrast, the way that one color can appear to change depending on the colors that surround it. This phenomenon was first described by Michel Eugene Chevreul in 1839, and it continues to be an important aspect of color theory.

The discovery of blue pigments – Blue pigment

The discovery of blue pigments is another important aspect of the invention of color. Blue is a relatively rare color in nature, and early humans would have had a limited understanding of how to create it. One of the earliest known blue pigments is Egyptian blue, it was first used in ancient Egypt around 2500 BCE. Egyptian blue is created by heating a mixture of lime, sand, and a copper-containing mineral such as azurite or malachite.

Another early blue pigment is called Ultramarine, it was extracted from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. Ultramarine was highly prized by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans for its rich, deep blue color. The discovery of these blue pigments would have been a significant event in the invention of color, as it expanded the range of colors that could be used by early humans.

The discovery of yellow pigments – Yellow pigment

Similarly, the discovery of yellow pigments is also an important aspect of the invention of color. Yellow is a common color in nature, but early humans would have had a limited understanding of how to create it. One of the earliest known yellow pigments is yellow ochre, a natural clay mineral composed mostly of hydrated iron oxide. Yellow ochre was used by early humans as a pigment for cave paintings and as a cosmetic.

Another early yellow pigment is called Orpiment, it was a mineral that was used in ancient times as a pigment for painting and as a medicine. The discovery of these yellow pigments would have been a significant event in the invention of color, as it expanded the range of colors that could be used by early humans.

The invention of purple dyes – Purple dye

Purple is a color that has fascinated people for centuries. It is a color that is often associated with luxury and wealth, and its discovery as a dye was a significant event in the history of color. One of the earliest known purple dyes is Tyrian purple, which was extracted from the glands of certain species of snails. This dye was highly prized in ancient times and was used to dye clothing and fabrics for royalty and the wealthy.

The discovery and invention of Tyrian purple was a significant event in the history of color, as it allowed people to create and use a new and highly sought-after color. The process of extracting the dye from snails was difficult and labor-intensive, making it a rare and expensive color. Its use was restricted to the elite, making it a symbol of wealth and power.

The invention of green pigments – Green pigments

Green is a color that is prevalent in nature, but the invention of green pigments was a significant event in the history of color. One of the earliest known green pigments is called Verdigris, which was made by exposing copper to vinegar or other acidic substances. This pigment was used in ancient times for painting and as a medicine.

Another early green pigment is called Scheele’s Green, it was a highly toxic pigment made from copper arsenite and was invented in the 18th century. This pigment was used in wallpapers, clothing, and other items. The invention of these green pigments expanded the range of colors that could be used by early humans and allowed them to create new shades and hues.

The invention of new pigments – New pigments

As human understanding of color and chemistry evolved, new pigments were invented. One example is the invention of lead-tin-yellow, a pigment that was created by mixing lead oxide and tin oxide. This pigment was widely used during the Renaissance and Baroque periods in art and architecture.

Another example is the invention of Paris Green, a highly toxic pigment made from copper arsenite. This pigment was widely used in the 19th century for wallpapers, clothing and other items. But it was also used in agriculture as a pesticide and in certain industry as a rodenticide.

The invention of these new pigments expanded the range of colors that could be used by early humans and allowed them to create new shades and hues. However, it also introduced a new set of challenges, as many of these pigments were highly toxic and posed a risk to human health.

The impact of color in art and culture – Color in art and culture

The invention of color has had a profound impact on art and culture throughout history. From prehistoric cave paintings to the vibrant colors of the Renaissance, color has played a crucial role in how we understand and interpret the world around us.

In ancient Egyptian art, color was used to convey meaning and convey the power and status of the pharaohs. In Greek and Roman art, color was used to create the illusion of depth and realism. The use of color in art continued to evolve over time, with the Renaissance seeing a renewed interest in the study of color and its use in art.

The invention of color has also had a significant impact on culture and society. The use of color in clothing and textiles has been used to convey social status and wealth throughout history. Color has also been used to convey religious and spiritual beliefs, with certain colors and symbols holding specific meanings in different cultures.

Conclusion – The invention of color revisited

The invention of color is a gradual process that has occurred over time, it is not a singular event. From the natural origins of color to the development of color theory and the invention of new pigments, the history of color is a complex and fascinating subject.

While the exact timeline of when color was first discovered and invented by human beings remains a mystery, it is clear that color has played a crucial role in human history. From early humans using materials like red ochre to create pigments, to the development of color theory and the invention of new pigments, color has been an important part of human culture and society.

The understanding and use of color has evolved over time, and it continues to play a significant role in our daily lives. From the clothes we wear to the food we eat, color surrounds us and plays a crucial role in how we perceive and understand the world around us. The invention of color is a ongoing process that will continue to evolve as we discover and invent new pigments, and new ways to use them.

In conclusion, the invention of color is not a single event, but rather a gradual process that has occurred over time and will continue to evolve. The history of color is a complex and fascinating subject that offers insight into human history, culture, and society.