History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c20.s4.t2: Dyes of Animal Origin
History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c20.s4.t2
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Dyes of Animal Origin
v1.c20.s4.t2.1
Among the dyes of animal origin, lac dye (*lakṣā*) was widely used. It is a resinous incrustation formed on the bark of trees by lac insect (*Tachardia lacca*). Two types of lac dyes are shell lac and stick lac.
v1.c20.s4.t2.2
Bee wax (*madhucchiṣṭam*) was also used as a vehicle of medium for different dye-stuffs. Cochineal is an insect which produces red dye. Kermes (*Coccus*) which have been yielding a scarlet dye was widely in use in ancient India. This insect is known as *rudhirakrimi* because it originates in blood, particularly human blood. The insects are squeezed with some auxiliaries to produce dye substances for colouring textile fabrics.
v1.c20.s4.t2.3
Conch shells and even corals were powdered and mixed with some glue for preparing white colours or pigments for painting. Elephant hides, buffalo hides were used to prepare *vajralepa*, a vehicle to carry the pigments. *Madhu* (honey), oils, resins, *guggula* (a fragrant gum resin) etc. were used as ingredients in the compounds of metal solvents and also as binders.