Project introduction in English
With the accelerating biodiversity loss, the climate crisis and the problems caused by industrial production, there is a widespread interest in dyeing textiles with natural dyes. Also Finnish craft enthusiasts, professional dyers and researchers alike have rediscovered traditional natural dye plants and their potential. However, current knowledge about traditional dyeing methods, dye professionals and the diverse uses of natural dyes is in many respects incomplete. Our new research project "Controlled Colours: natural dyes, professional dyers and trading of dyes as a part of societal change (1400–1850)" focuses on the importance of natural dyes, artisanal dyers and traders - such as apothecaries and local merchants - in Europe from the 15th to the mid-19th century. The production, trade and use of dyed textiles were highly regulated: consumption and the professions that possessed dyeing know-how were regulated, while the costume of different social groups and t