Apricot Orange

Apricot orange originates from the apricot fruit native to China, whose cultivation history can be traced back over three thousand years to the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Although the 'Classic of Poetry' ode 'The peach tree is young and tender, its blossoms are brilliant' praises the peach, the apricot was equally esteemed as one of the five ancient fruits.

After the Silk Road opened in the Han dynasty, as apricot trees spread westward, apricot orange gradually became a reference color for silk dyeing. Softer than bright yellow and lighter than orange, it was often used in women's clothing and undergarments, appearing gentle and reserved.

Apricot blossom culture flourished in the Tang dynasty. The Apricot Garden in Qujiang became the banquet site for newly successful imperial examination candidates, linking apricot orange with the vigor of spring and youthful success. Tang poetry's imagery of 'apricot blossoms blowing over the head' added a poetic and romantic touch.

During the Song and Yuan dynasties, apricot-colored porcelain and fabrics were quite popular. Kilns like Ding and Jingdezhen produced apricot-glazed wares. The literati's preference for understated elegance meant the soft, non-assertive texture of apricot orange highly resonated with Song aesthetics.

From the Ming and Qing dynasties to the Republican era, apricot orange remained in use for women's cosmetics and clothing, known as 'apricot red' or 'apricot yellow,' serving as a key visual element for expressing a gentle and virtuous temperament in the boudoir.