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Symbolism of Blue In Different Cultures
In India, blue is thought to bring bad luck and is associated with mourning. However, it is the colour of erotic passion Krisha, the god of love, is always depicted as being blue.
Blue was traditionally associated with pain in China. However Mao introduced the fashion for blue work clothes and the demand for blue cloth subsequently led to the development of synthetic indigo.
The introduction of cotton and indigo during the 13th century in Japan revolutionized rural life. It was was light, warm and comfortable and could be easily be dyed. The Japanese slept under mosquito nets dyed blue, a color soothing and which was believed to reperl insects and snakes.
In the Christian West, blue began to emerge in the 12th century. Painters seem to favour blue, it represented the colour of heaven. The Virgin Mary, with her blue mantel was the greatest ambassadress of the colour blue. kings and aristocrats dared to wear the colour themselves and it became the sign of the very highest social class.
In the Cyclades, (south east of Greece) the colour blue-turquoise is believed to repel evil. It comes from an old belief, that the sky-blue shade had the power to keep Evil away. Blue church cupolas, windows, doors, walls, staircases and fences, will provide protection from Evil. Blue-turquoise stones on jewelry, belts and weapons, will safeguard people and animals against Evil. Blue "eyes" and blue stones mounted on gold and silver are presented to babies and small children as a talisman for protection.
Kate Smith, CMG, CfYH
Also by Sonia Adam Murray
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