A comprehensive study of textile dyeing techniques of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, China

This research pioneers the comprehensive investigation of textile dyeing techniques of the Ming and Qing Dynasties on the basis of existing research results on historical dye recipes and dyes on historical textiles, and art historical research on the social and global contexts of dyeing. Research results show that dyes commonly used during this period include safflower, sappanwood, Chinese cork tree, pagoda bud, indigo, acorn cup, turmeric, gallnut, smoketree and some early synthetic dyes. These dyes were chosen mainly according to their colours to obtain specific shades. The colour obtained was enriched by variations in the combination and quantity of raw materials. The uses of dyes revealed by literature research and chemical analysis are largely consistent with one another. Further investigations show that the dyeing techniques and official decrees on costume colour developed with each other. The exchange of dyes between China and Europe was limited in terms of natural dyes, but was greatly expanded in terms of early synthetic dyes. This research not only promotes the knowledge of Chinese dyeing history, as a part of world dyeing history, but also contributes to better understanding and preservation of the textiles