Literary notes about Turmeric (AI summary)
In literary and technical texts alike, turmeric is not only valued as a spice but also celebrated for its distinctive yellow hue. In some descriptions, the very phrase “turmeric yellow” is evoked as a succinct emblem of radiance [1], while in scientific observations turmeric‑treated paper vividly shifts its color under chemical influence [2, 3]. Its use as a natural dye is often noted for producing a brilliant, if sometimes ephemeral, yellow—a quality that has been harnessed in everything from coloring fabrics and straw to ritual embellishments [4, 5, 6, 7]. Moreover, literary imagery occasionally employs turmeric as a metaphor for brightness and transformation, as in the striking “yellow mound of Ras Kurkumah” that captures its transient yet captivating glow [8]. Even technical commentaries point to its discerning application—where orthodox methods yield a pure yellow rather than red—highlighting turmeric’s venerable role as a cherished, natural pigment [9, 10].
- Turmeric yellow.
— from The Principles of Leather Manufacture by H. R. (Henry Richardson) Procter - In the same manner, alkalies may be detected by a strip of turmeric yellow paper, which will be also changed to red by alkalies.
— from A Select Collection of Valuable and Curious Arts and Interesting Experiments, Which are Well Explained and Warranted Genuine and may be Performed Easily, Safely, and at Little Expense. by Unknown - Although turmeric is rich in coloring matter, its want of permanence is a hindrance to it.
— from The Practical Ostrich Feather Dyer by Alexander (Instructor in feather dyeing) Paul - The colour can be yellowed by fustic or turmeric.
— from A Book on Vegetable Dyes by Ethel Mairet - Turmeric dyes the first yellow, like it did the cotton.
— from The Chemistry of Hat ManufacturingLectures Delivered Before the Hat Manufacturers' Association by Watson Smith - Seven small flags, made of cloths dyed with turmeric, are stuck into the shoulders, abdomen, legs, and head of the image.
— from Castes and Tribes of Southern India. Vol. 2 of 7 by Edgar Thurston - Yellow straw is produced in the same manner, using turmeric and annatto only.
— from Philippine MatsPhilippine Craftsman Reprint Series No. 1 by Philippines. Bureau of Education - The mirage raised high in air the yellow mound of Ras Kurkumah ("Turmeric Head"), which bounded the water-line to the south.
— from The Land of Midian (Revisited) — Volume 2 by Burton, Richard Francis, Sir - The turmeric, as applied by the more orthodox, is of a yellow instead of red colour.
— from Castes and Tribes of Southern India. Vol. 1 of 7 by Edgar Thurston - Turmeric, too, was formerly prescribed—a plant used for making a yellow dye; [22] and celandine, with its yellow juice, was once equally in repute.
— from The Folk-lore of Plants by T. F. (Thomas Firminger) Thiselton-Dyer
