Indian Yellow 

Curator: Here we see “Indian Yellow” as presented by Geo. Rowney & Co., a vibrant pigment suspended in a small glass jar, next to a color calibration card. Editor: It looks like sunshine concentrated into a tiny vessel, but I also immediately think of the dark history behind its production. Curator: Indeed. Analyzing the color alone, we observe its luminosity, its capacity to reflect light. The calibration card nearby helps us perceive its precise chromatic value. Editor: But we can't ignore that Indian Yellow, at one point, was derived from the urine of cows fed only mango leaves, a practice raising serious questions of exploitation. Curator: Certainly, the origin adds a layer of complexity. However, purely from a visual perspective, consider how this pigment was once prized by artists for its unique brilliance. Editor: I agree. It’s a sobering reminder that even the most beautiful materials often come with hidden costs. A complicated history. Curator: A vital reminder to stay curious beyond the surface. Editor: Absolutely, let’s keep these discussions going.