Color: Rose Madder | Country: Iran
Rose madder is a distinctive pale pink colored pigment derived from the root of the Rubia tinctorum plant, a relative of coffee and gardenias. A natural organic lake pigment, rose madder is a unique hue with varying shades of rose, browns and purples that has yet to be duplicated. It was first used as a dye for fabrics by the ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian as far back as 1500 BC. Cloth dyed with madder root pigment was even found in the tomb of Tutankhamun.
Considered one of the best quality natural pigments, it was highly sought after and was brought to Europe by the crusaders. By the 13th century it was being cultivated across Europe, notably in the Netherlands, where the sandy soil provided a favorable environment for the plant.
The hue is made by steaming madder roots in pits, then they are dried and crushed in pounding mills. The original production methods were costly and in 1804, renowned colourist George Field, after extensive study of the madder plant, discovered a more efficient process of extracting the dye and making a stronger, more vibrant pigment. His process for rose madder and other hues were acquired by the then newly formed Windsor Newton upon his death in 1854.
Fun fact! Both the dye and pigment forms of madder fluoresce orange-pink under UV light.
Menu
Persian Herb Frittata
Radish, Cucumber, Onion Salad with Mint-Orange Blossom Dressing
Chargrilled Eggplant with Saffron Yogurt, Parsley, and Pickled Chilies
☽ ☽ ☽ ☽
Chicken, Walnut, and Pomegranate Stew
Basmati
☽ ☽ ☽ ☽
Pistachio, Honey and Orange Blossom Ice Cream with Shortbread