November 20th Color Calendar Benikeshinezu (Red-Erased Mouse)
November 20th Color Calendar
Benikeshinezu (Red-burned Mouse)
"Once the crimson fades, unspoken feelings emerge."
Beni-Keshi-Nezumi is a grayish reddish purple, like ink or black layered on top of red. It is one of the "48 Teas and 100 Nezumi" colors that were popular in the late Edo period, and is a color that reflects the aesthetics of chic and peace of mind. The "Keshi" and "Nezumi" in the color name both refer to "tastelessness," and by subduing the vibrant red, it expresses the lingering emotion and serenity.
This color represents the quiet heat that remains after the crimson passion has subsided. It is the color of unspoken feelings, such as the end of a love affair, the end of a festival, or the night a letter is written. Edo townspeople competed for style within the gray range permitted under the ban on luxury goods. Beni-kasugezumizu was a color that particularly symbolized "inner beauty."
November 20th marks the end of Shimotsuki. The leaves fade, the air turns white, and the city quietly sinks into darkness. Benishesunezumi is a color that reflects the lingering feeling of this season. It is a quiet emotion that remains after the gaiety.
Respect for "the unspoken" is an important theme in WABISUKE's philosophy. Benishinezumi is a color that conveys meaning without words. It adds depth to a space and remains quietly in the depths of memory.
References
• "Traditional Japanese Colors" by Shikosha • What is Benishesuge? – The ABCs of Traditional Colors • "Tekagami Moyo Setsuyo" Edo Dyeing Techniques