Quiz
When white light shines on a royal garment dyed with Tyrian purple, what physical process explains why the garment appears purple to our eyes?
Chapter 1
The colors of power and empire
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Chapter 2
The deadly shades of home decor
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Chapter 3
Pigments from bizarre and taboo sources
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Chapter 4
The modern battles for exclusive colors
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YOUR GOAL
Master of The forbidden history of colors
Ch 1 · The colors of power and empire
Quiz
In the history and philosophy of color, why did ancient Roman rulers strictly regulate the use of Tyrian purple dye through sumptuary laws?
Quiz
Which color was Marvel's superhero, the Incredible Hulk, originally intended to be in his 1962 debut before printing issues led to his famous green skin?
Quiz
Associated with royalty and Roman emperors, the luxurious dye known as Tyrian purple was historically harvested from which unusual source?
Glossary
Púrpura de Tiro (sustantivo)
Exclusivo tinte obtenido por los fenicios a partir de miles de caracoles marinos. Al ser más costoso que el oro, este pigmento se convirtió en el símbolo supremo de riqueza, poder e imperio.
Exclusivo tinte obtenido por los fenicios a partir de miles de caracoles marinos. Al ser más costoso que el oro, este pigmento se convirtió en el símbolo supremo de riqueza, poder e imperio.
choko The Forbidden History of Colors
Only the Caesar / Rocking the purple / You die if you wear it
Fun Fact
Snail breath: Tyrian purple was actually made from the mucus of predatory sea snails that smelled like rotting fish.
Quiz
What toxic chemical was found in the mineral orpiment, which was used to make Imperial yellow?
Quiz
Which religious figure's robes were traditionally painted with precious ultramarine blue in Renaissance art?
Quiz
For how long did the Spanish Empire successfully keep the source of cochineal red a state secret?