Iron Oxide Red: Ukiyo-e colorant

Iron oxide red 弁柄 (bengara): A colorant derived from hematite, a metallic black-gray or dark red mineral primarily composed of iron oxide.

Iron oxide red has been the most commonly found brown whether used alone or in mixtures. When printed, it appears dense and opaque. Iron oxide red has been found on early hand-colored to full color prints throughout the Edo period (1603–1868). The color can range from a bright light red to a deep almost maroon brown.

For additional information see: Hematite, Ferric oxide, Red ochre

Examples of Iron oxide red in Ukiyo-e Prints

Beauties of the Yoshiwara by Suzuki Harunobu

Beauties of the Yoshiwara by Suzuki Harunobu

Beauties of the Yoshiwara by Suzuki Harunobu

Beauties of the Yoshiwara by Suzuki Harunobu

Beauties of the Yoshiwara by Suzuki Harunobu

Analysis

X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) is used to detect iron (Fe). When it is found in a red/brown area, it is an indication for the presence of iron oxide red (Fe₂O₃).

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  XRF spectrum of Iron oxide red

Images of Iron oxide red

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  Hematite

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  Hematite

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  Hematite

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  Ferric oxide

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  Red ocher

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  Iron oxide red

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  Printed iron oxide red

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  Red ochre, by National Museum of American History

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  Ochres (audio), by Harvard Art Museums

List of Prints

Below is a list of prints where iron oxide red was detected.