Artefacts of ‘Blue’

This thematic display explores Indanthrene Blue, the industrial dye iconically represented by ‘Miss Happiness’ in 1930s China. It is the world’s first synthetic vat dye and is known for exceptional vibrancy. The colour resonated with the nationwide sentiment during the turbulent 1930s and 1940s, pioneering a new modern aesthetic. The consistent, standardised shade of ‘blue’ also became a staple in school uniforms and other institutional attire. Discover a shade of blue that is not melancholic and trace its journey through time!