Historical Significance:
Orange, as a distinct colour separate from red, has its roots in the ancient world, but it wasn't always recognized or named as we do today. The word "orange" in English, which originally referred to the fruit, only became associated with the colour after the fruit was introduced to Europe, specifically through trade routes in the Middle Ages. Before the widespread recognition of orange as a distinct colour, it was often referred to as "yellow-red" or by other similar terms in various languages.
Cultural Meaning:
The cultural significance of orange varies across regions. In Hindu culture, orange holds a sacred meaning and is prominent in the attire of holy men and women. It symbolizes purity, love, and spiritual wisdom. This is evident during festivals like Navratri, where orange is one of the prominently displayed colours. In the Netherlands, orange has national significance because of the House of Orange-Nassau; on King's Day, the country is awash with orange in celebration. Meanwhile, in the Middle East, orange is associated with mourning.
Symbolic Meaning:
Symbolic Meaning: Orange often represents enthusiasm, creativity, determination, and stimulation. As a blend of the energy of red and the happiness of yellow, it is seen as a balanced colour representing warmth, autumn, and harvest. Orange is also considered an energetic colour, so it's associated with youthfulness, rejuvenation, and vitality. In modern interpretations, especially in design and art, orange can symbolize adventure and risk-taking. Additionally, in the chakra system prevalent in some Indian traditions, the sacral chakra, which is associated with creativity, pleasure, and relationships, is represented by the colour orange.
In summary, the colour orange, with its blend of red’s passion and yellow’s joy, carries a multifaceted significance. From its association with autumn harvests to its sacred meanings in various religious and cultural practices, orange is a vibrant and essential colour in the global tapestry of human expression.
Orange is associated with optimism and energy, many brands use orange to convey a message of positivity and creativity. In design, orange commands attention without being as overpowering as red, it is considered more friendly and inviting.
“Used throughout a room, orange can become surprisingly neutral, and yet it can be bright and mood enhancing” - Jonathan Adler.
Brands | ORANGE | easyJet | Etsy | Nickelodeon | Reece's Pieces | Fanta
The complimentary / opposing colour = BLUE“Orange is red brought nearer to humanity by yellow.” - Wassily Kandinsky
“Orange is the happiest colour.” - Frank Sinatra
"There is no blue without yellow and without orange." - Vincent Van Gogh
"I always bring an orange scarf, not just so I can wear it or tuck it into my pocket, but also so I can throw it over a lamp in the hotel room. Orange is my favourite colour, and it gives a lovely, warm ambience." - RuPaul