The birth of color is intimately linked to that of vision.
When vision developed, a large number of chromophores then emerged: portions of biological molecules that appear on living beings, selectively absorbing or reflecting light in such a way as to obtain all kinds of colored pigments .
For example, the carotene molecule , which gives its color to many fruits and vegetables such as carrots, absorbs wavelengths in the blue range of the visible spectrum but reflects the complementary color (orange and red). A product containing carotene therefore appears orange or red to us!
Regular networks that interfere directly with the light wave also appear, to obtain structural colors of perfect iridescent purity, like those of the peacock feather or the beetle.
At the same time, the eyes and related brain structures have honed their ability to accurately detect the full range of visible colors – and beyond.
The relationship between man and color was born!
And this relationship is found in our history…
For example, in the tombs of the Cro-Magnons, placed alongside sacred objects such as weapons or talismans, we find brightly colored marbles. 17,000 years ago, the painters of Lascaux already knew how to handle colored pigments to accomplish their admirable works.
The temples and statues of the Egyptians were adorned with the most vivid tones. The beetle and its spectacular iridescence were perceived as divine. Colored make-up was a sign of great beauty, and pure-colored gemstones were used in sacred rituals and for healing.
Source: A. Martel, "The Power of Light", Ed. Trénadiel