Indigo

by Jenny Balfour-Paul

This classic book, previously published by British Museum Press, is now an Archetype title. Indigo tells the compelling and comprehensive story of the world's oldest, most magical, and best-loved dye. Produced from plants by a process akin to alchemy, indigo has a unique chemistry that renders it compatible with all natural fibre. From the time of the ancient Pharaohs it made an incredible impact worldwide as the world's only source of blue of every hue, being the mark both of 'blue-collar workers' and of aristocrats wearing 'royal blue'. It was also indispensable for creating a glorious range of colours in combination with other natural dyes, it provided paint and medicine, and it featured in many rituals. Its fascinating history continued after the invention of synthetic indigo, used to dye the world's most popular garment, denim jeans. For environmental reasons, indigo from nature is making a comeback today in many countries.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, History, Art History, Crafts, Microhistory

264 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 1998

Reviews

[Lorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful great pictures

[Adrianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the book of books on indigo color and dye. I used this book as a reference for writing a short paper about indigo for one of my classes this semester and was amazed by the history, the different indigo plants, the origins of the word, the wonderful examples of textiles dyed with indigo and art made with the color; there is even a section on woad. The author really put forward the time and effort to research and write this book and it is simply amazing.

[E · Rating 4 out of 5]

So enthralling!

[Stephanie Blair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating read. Covers many areas including cultivation, plant sources, history, patterning techniques, art, tradition, folklore, and more.

[PRINCESS · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love, magic, ancient, art ... Book of books.