White

White

Replica of paintings from the Chauvet cave, showcasing the use of white.

White is the lightest color and is achromatic (having no hue). It is the color of fresh snow, chalk, and milk, and is the opposite of black. White objects fully reflect and scatter all the visible wavelengths of light. White on television and computer screens is created by a mixture of red, blue, and green light.

History and Symbolism

White has been a significant color in art and culture throughout history. In ancient Egypt, white was associated with purity and sacredness. The

Ancient Egyptian painting using white.

Egyptians used white in their art to depict the sacred and the divine. In ancient Rome, white was worn by the Vestal Virgins as a symbol of purity. The

Chief Vestal wearing white.

Vestal Virgins were priestesses of Vesta, goddess of the hearth, and their white garments symbolized their commitment to chastity and service. During the Middle Ages, white was used in religious art to symbolize purity and holiness. The

St. Benedict depicted in white.

color was often used to depict the robes of saints and angels.

Use in Art

White has been used extensively in art to create contrast and highlight other colors. In the Renaissance, artists like Fra Angelico used white to depict divine light and purity. The

Fra Angelico's use of white in the Transfiguration.

use of white in paintings helped to create a sense of depth and realism. In the Baroque period, artists like Bartolomeo Passarotti used white to highlight the features of important figures, such as Pope Pius V. The

Pope Pius V depicted in white.

use of white in clothing and drapery added a sense of grandeur and importance.

Cultural Significance

White is often associated with purity, innocence, and cleanliness. In many cultures, white is worn at weddings to symbolize the purity of the bride. In some Eastern cultures, however, white is associated with mourning and funerals.

In modern times, white is used in design and architecture to create a sense of space and simplicity. It is often used in minimalist designs to convey a sense of calm and order.

Related Pages

• Color theory
• Achromatic colors
• Symbolism of white
• History of art