Red: Obtaining, uses, and meanings
For years, red has been used in the attire of the Latin American people and has acquired diverse meanings according to the tradition of the wearer.
Introducción
Due to its abundance in nature, this color has been an important part of the life of communities around the world. It is seen in cave paintings and good luck charms. So, it also colors men's and women's attire.
To obtain it on a non-industrial scale, ochre and red tones are taken from inorganic components of the soil and organic plant and animal materials.
Red Ceramic CupMuseo de Trajes de la Universidad de América
Inorganic pigments
Mainly iron and mercury oxides, found in some clays and rocks such as hematite and cinnabar, are used. These materials were also used for the
Ceramic bowl with negative painted patternMuseo de Trajes de la Universidad de América
Bowl with negative painting
Ceramic vessel found in the Nariño area. It shows a negative painting with geometric patterns in dark tones.
Malagana Anthropomorphic FigurineMuseo de Trajes de la Universidad de América
Malagana anthropomorphic figure
Female figure associated with the Malagana archaeological zone, in Palmira (Valle del Cauca), with dates estimated between 200 BC and 200 AD
Achiote (Seed used for red dyes)Museo de Trajes de la Universidad de América
Organic pigments
Leaves, seeds, fruits, and even insects are transformed into dyes for the dyeing of textiles and body paint.
Chica (Leaf used as red dye for body painting)Museo de Trajes de la Universidad de América
Chica leaves
Among the most representative pigments or of common use in several cultures, not only in Colombia but also in Peru, is the chica, which is a climbing shrub from whose leaves a reddish dye is extracted.
The way we are now.Museo de Trajes de la Universidad de América
Meanings and attributions
The resemblance to blood and the conditions under which it is obtained have given red a variety of meanings throughout the world over time.
Ostentation and luxury
The red tones of the underskirt and the weaving technique recall the status of the ñapangas since being daughters of wealthy fathers they could afford attractive colors; but these tones also remind the pre-Hispanic dyes with elements such as cochineals
The Ñapanga represents a woman known for wearing a colorful costume with warm materials. This underskirt is the first layer of protection against the cold, over which a fustán (white tocuyo [calico] skirt) and, finally, a short skirt are placed.
Memory
Some underskirts were red and made of bayeta (flannel), which alluded to the inheritance of the Muisca communities. This garment was worn concealed and in contact with the wearer's skin as an allegory of her closeness to the spirits of fertility and harvest.
Solemnity and leadership
The uniform with which Simon Bolivar is traditionally represented, known as traje granadero (grenadier suit) or traje papagayo (parrot suit) due to its contrast between blue and red, shows us the "Liberator" as a serious and disciplined leader.
Protection and good luck
In Latin America , traditionally, some elements allow to drive away bad luck and attract good luck. For this purpose, red seeds from the tropical zone are used, such as chochos and huairuros, among others.
Seed Necklace. Embera CommunityMuseo de Trajes de la Universidad de América
Who wears red...
Today we have retaken most of these meanings, using red as a synonym of passion, security, and even happiness; it has been imposed as a very present color in daily attire.
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