curcuma

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Curcuma

Extract from curcuma longa.

Manufacturer / product code: Kremer / 37220
Chemical description: coloring extracts of Curcuma longa
Color: yellow
Color Index: NY3

Curcuma, commonly known as turmeric, is one of the oldest natural yellow colorants used by humans. Derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa, it has been employed for millennia across Asia not only as a spice and medicinal plant but also as a vibrant dye. Its colouring power comes from curcumin, a bright yellow polyphenolic compound that dissolves easily in water and imparts an intense, warm hue. Historically, curcuma was widely used to dye textiles, prepare manuscript illuminations, colour paper, and create decorative washes. Its accessibility and brilliant tone made it a popular choice in both domestic crafts and artistic workshops.

In the world of art, curcuma was valued for its radiant, golden-yellow luminosity, especially in miniature painting, folk art, and early modern manuscripts. However, artists were always aware of its limitations: although striking when freshly applied, curcuma’s colour is not lightfast and tends to fade or shift to brown when exposed to light, alkaline conditions, or prolonged aging. For this reason, it was rarely used in fine oil painting but remained present in water-based media, temporary decorations, and teaching materials.

Despite its fugitive nature, curcuma possesses features that continue to attract interest: it is non-toxic, easy to extract, and provides a uniquely warm, organic yellow difficult to replicate with mineral pigments. Today curcuma is studied in conservation science as a typical example of a natural, light-sensitive dye, appearing in historical artworks where its presence can inform dating, provenance, and past artistic practices. Its vivid beauty, cultural significance, and scientific relevance make curcuma a fascinating pigment whose story bridges art, tradition, and chemistry.

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Pigments databases

CAMEO MFA

The Conservation & Art Materials Encyclopedia Online (CAMEO) is a comprehensive, searchable resource providing detailed technical information on materials (pigments), techniques, and tools used in art conservation, preservation, and scientific analysis.

IRUG (Infrared and Raman Users Group) Database
Open-access database of FTIR and Raman spectra for cultural heritage materials. Includes many historical pigments, dyes, and binders.