| THE EPISTOLARIAN |
This week, I've been playing with all of my purple seals, and realized that I'd like to do an installment of the Epistolarian dedicated to all the beautiful purples, both seals and sealing waxes. In my collection of antiques, I have many seals carved from real amethyst as well as pieces made from a purple glass that we call amethyst glass.
Purple has long been associated with royalty, but there is much more to its rich history...
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Historically, the production of purple was not only a challenge but also a costly endeavor. In the initial millennia BC, purple pigment was a luxury, with its most ancient production methods involving manganese. However, this method fell out of favor until it was rediscovered in modern times.
The quest for purple saw a significant breakthrough with the use of the murex shellfish, capable of yielding the coveted purpura or Tyrian purple. Yet, the necessity of countless murex for a mere dab of pigment reserved its use for the elite, including historical figures like Julius Caesar, who developed a penchant for this color during his visit to Cleopatra's palace. Caesar's obsession went so far as to prohibit others from donning purple, a decree later escalated by Nero, who deemed wearing purple a crime punishable by death.
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Despite the fall of Rome, the prestige associated with purple persisted, symbolizing royalty among European monarchs and sanctity within the Catholic Church. However, the tide began to turn with technological advancements, democratizing access to this once-exclusive color.
The transformation of purple into a color accessible to all was revolutionized by William Henry Perkin in 1856. While investigating coal tar for malaria treatment, Perkin stumbled upon a synthetic purple pigment, which he named mauve. This discovery coincided with the rise of Impressionism, whose proponents, enamored by purple, incorporated it extensively into their works, sparking a phenomenon derided as "violettomania."
As purple became widely available, it continued to inspire artists beyond the Impressionist movement, with notable figures like Mark Rothko, Francis Bacon, and Georgia O’Keeffe incorporating it into their art. The color also found favor in pop art, celebrated for its vibrancy and sometimes perceived kitsch.
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By the 1980s, purple had made its mark in industrial and graphic design, particularly within the Memphis movement, characterizing the era's aesthetic.
As we delve deeper into the 21st century, the role and representation of purple continue to evolve, promising new interpretations and applications of this captivating color. Where do you think purple is headed?
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Dinna Forget
Central to the seal’s symbolism is the thistle, Scotland’s national emblem since the 13th century.
According to legend, the thistle played a crucial role in the defense of Scotland against Norse invaders. As the story goes, one barefoot Viking stepped on a thistle while attempting to sneak up on Scottish warriors, his cries of pain alerting the Scots to the impending attack. The thistle thus came to symbolize protection, tenacity, and the Scottish spirit of resilience.
The phrase "dinna forget" inscribed on the seal comes from Scots. It translates to "do not forget" in Standard English. The phrase is a reminder or an admonition to keep something in mind, not to overlook it, or to remember to carry out a specific task or duty. When paired with the thistle it often means to remember the bravery and uniqueness of the Scottish people.
Featured Wax Color: Laelia
This beautiful pinkish-purple hue is inspired by the exotic and delicate orchid flower. This exquisite sealing wax captures the essence of the Laelia orchid, which is known for its stunning coloration and captivating beauty.
Orchids have been revered throughout history for their beauty and symbolism. In ancient Greece, orchids were associated with fertility and were believed to have the power to influence the gender of an unborn child. In Victorian England, orchids became a symbol of luxury and refinement, and were highly coveted by the upper classes.
Laelia can be purchased on its own or in the purple sealing wax bundle.
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Warning by Jenny Joseph
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When I am an old woman I shall wear purple You can wear terrible shirts and grow more fat But now we must have clothes that keep us dry But maybe I ought to practise a little now? |
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With love,