Since ancient times, red has captivated people, evoking life, love, splendor, and the beauty of being alive.

In prehistoric times, red ochre obtained from nature was used in cave paintings and other forms of artistic expression. Reminiscent of earth, fire, and the sun, red was perceived as a color that embodied the power of life.

In ancient Egypt, red also brought warmth and vitality to murals and decorative arts, evoking the earth and the radiance of the sun.

In China, vermilion and red lacquer have been used since ancient times. With their rich luster and depth, these reds have been cherished for the distinctive beauty created through the harmony of materials and human craftsmanship.

As a color associated with the energy of life, the sun, and fire, red has also become connected with wishes for happiness and prosperity.

In Japan, red and black lacquer have been used since the Jōmon period. Lacquerware combining these two colors is known to have been created approximately 7,000 years ago.

As a color derived from nature, red has been passed down through generations, enriching the beauty of everyday life.

Within Japanese aesthetics, red has also been embraced in daily life and decorative arts as a color that evokes the sun and the vitality of life.

In Europe, red found rich expression in flowers, fruits, textiles, paintings, and other art forms. From the sixteenth century onward, brilliant reds derived from cochineal, an insect native to Central and South America, also became more widely available.

Across different lands, people have observed the reds found in nature and cultivated distinctive forms of beauty shaped by their own cultures.

Transcending time and cultural boundaries, red has been cherished as a color that reflects the radiance of life and the warmth of the human spirit.