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 The Art of Tannin: The Cultural Gifts of Oak and Myrobalan

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Once upon a time, two remarkable trees—the oak in Europe and the Harda (myrobalan) in India—played a vital role in the world of art and culture. This tale is all about tannin, as oak galls, harvested from these majestic trees, were transformed into rich black ink, indispensable to the scribes who created illuminated manuscripts and sacred texts, such as the Bible. This ink, made by mixing crushed oak galls with iron salts, has survived through the centuries, preserving history in museums like the British Library and the Bodleian Library.

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Simultaneously, oak bark provided tannins for dyeing textiles and tanning leather, producing earthy tones ranging from golden browns to deep rusts. Across the world, the Harda tree flourished in India, with its fruit rich in tannins being essential for natural dyeing and leather production. Artisans used myrobalan to create vibrant shades of yellow, beige, and gold, blending it with other natural dyes like indigo to craft exquisite textiles.

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These trees formed a natural bridge between India and France, connecting their dyeing traditions and showcasing a shared appreciation for nature’s transformative power.

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In the Cognac region, an artist named Parmeet harnesses the gifts of both trees. Using oak galls, fallen leaves, and bark, she envisions a future where oak trees combat deforestation. Her sustainable practices promote the preservation of these vital trees, highlighting their historical importance in the production of ink and dye, all driven by the power of tannins.

As you explore this narrative, think of the rich history woven into each drop of ink and each shade of dye. Touch the earthy tones and imagine the ancient techniques that connect us to these two incredible trees.

Learn More

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To learn more about the history of oak gall ink and myrobalan tannins in dyeing, visit:

PARMEET CIRCULAR COLOUR LAB

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