Cobalt Blue

A perfect blue. Yves Klein (1928-1962), Blue Monochrome, 1961

Blue is arguably the most prevalent color in nature. But why do we have blue sky and sea? It is because blue light has a shorter wavelength and is scattered around the atmosphere and the water particles, while much of the longer wavelength (red, orange and yellow) light pass through without being reflected. 

The Blue Planet

I have been interested in the cobalt blue used in Chinese ceramics. Not only is the color one of the oldest pigment applied in history, the monochromatic designs of floral and other intricate patterns are always striking and elegant on white.

Chinese Ceramics

Ming period (1368–1644) porcelain with under glaze cobalt blue (Jingdezhen ware)

The cobalt blue pigment used in the ceramics is actually made using cobalt salts of alumina, or cobalt oxide. The technique seems to have come from the Middle East in the 9th century, notably from Iran, where cobalt blue pigments were from local mines, and were exported as a raw material to China. 

Commercial cobalt blue pigment

Cobalt blue has been used by many different cultures throughout history on artworks and painting. Blue carries a number of different meanings and symbolism. It could symbolize divine, fidelity, sadness, conserving, healing, relaxation, exploration, trust, and calmness.

Given the cultural and symbolic context, there are certain associations drawn when cobalt blue is used in design, especially in interior design, since it could affect how people feel and act in a space.

The cobalt blue color is best used when you want to convey a sense of seriousness and importance. It is quite a bold color due to its intense saturation or chroma, so it is definitely a prominent element if it is used in an interior. Given the intensity of the color, it is important to use other elements to achieve balance in the design. For example, in traditional blue and white Chinese ceramics, the cobalt blue is contrasted against the white background of the patterns, creating a harmonious balance. In interior design, a block of solid cobalt blue color best used in small accents such as tableware and upholstery. To be used on wider surfaces, the color should be used in combination of other muted hues, in patterns.

On the other hand, cobalt blue is not suitable for signage when you want to provoke the feeling of excitement, emergency, or danger, since the color might not be visible from a distance, so any signage or important communication message might be lost.

Source for research on history and origin of cobalt blue: Wikipedia