Colour Origins

The history and cultural significance of Chrome Yellow, from its origins in 19th century art and interiors to contemporary fashion, design and architecture.

Gucci’s determination to launch Rosso Ancora as a signature colour for the brand is an object lesson in the importance of making the perfect choice.

From poisonous purgatives to Flemish masters, this rich yellow has a distinctly chequered history.

Softer and more forgiving than black, sophisticated and sober, navy’s ubiquity gives it a pleasing and reassuring anonymity. If there is such thing as a fail-safe choice, then navy is it.

Could Rose be more of a variation on a theme rather than an actual colour? The sheer abundance of pinks under this banner, from palest blush to Barbie tones, would suggest that the word isn’t perhaps as precise as some colour names.

Avocado has always swung wildly in and out of popularity. Now the current insatiable demand for natural greens sees avocado once again ripe for rehabilitation.

Pity the colour beige; this hardworking neutral has become the butt of jokes and the scourge of rented properties. Yet recent re-evaluation has revealed that this is a colour that shouldn’t be underestimated; just don’t call it by its actual name.

Made from a mineral mined as early as the 7th millennium BC, then employed as an indicator of wealth and status in Renaissance art, Ultramarine was once valued higher than gold.

From failed chemistry experiment to the giddy heights of Victorian fashion, flirtations with royalty and camp, and now a role in colouring the Metaverse, mauve is a colour with a rich and often surprising history.