Cape Jasmine Blue Lake Pigment

Description

Cape Jasmine Blue Lake is a rare, natural lake pigment derived from the fruit of Gardenia jasminoides (Cape Jasmine). The pigment is created by extracting the deep blue coloring compound known as genipin, which develops when the fruit ferments. This pigment has been traditionally used in East Asian textile dyeing, food coloring, and manuscript illumination.

Cape Jasmine Blue Lake produces a rich blue hue with a soft, natural appearance, making it ideal for artists seeking organic, botanical-based colors. It blends well with other natural pigments and provides unique, vibrant blues that are difficult to achieve with mineral-based alternatives. The pigment is known for its beautiful transparency and luminous quality in watercolor, tempera, and certain oil-based mediums.

History

Ancient and Traditional Use (Pre-10th Century CE): Used in China and Japan as a dye for fabrics and inks, with applications in manuscript illumination.

Medieval to Early Modern Period (10th-18th Century CE): Incorporated into painting and calligraphy, especially in East Asian art, where natural botanical pigments were preferred for their subtle and harmonious colors.

Modern Applications (19th Century - Present): Reemerging among natural dye enthusiasts, conservationists, and historical artists for its botanical origins and soft blue hues.

Pigment Information

Pigment Type: Natural Lake Pigment

Source: Gardenia jasminoides (Cape Jasmine)

Country of Origin: East Asia (China, Japan, Korea)

Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Oil, Tempera, Acrylic, Encaustic, Cold Wax, Casein, Milk, Swedish Flour, Lime / Fresco

Lightfastness: Moderate

Opacity: Translucent

Other Names: Gardenia Blue, Genipin Blue, Natural Blue Lake

Color Index Code: NA (Natural Organic Pigment)