Prussian Blue
About Prussian Blue (#013556)
Prussian Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #013556, is a deep, rich shade of blue with a slightly greenish undertone. It is named after the pigment 'Prussian blue', which was one of the first synthetic pigments created in the early 18th century. The pigment was accidentally discovered in Berlin, Prussia, around 1706. Chemically, Prussian blue is a complex iron hexacyanoferrate. Known for its intense color and stability, Prussian blue has been widely used in various applications, including paints, inks, and dyes. In art, it has been a favorite of painters for centuries, offering a deep and saturated blue tone that was previously difficult to achieve with natural pigments. The color exudes sophistication and depth.
The hex color #013556, a very dark shade of blue known as Prussian Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color. Its extremely low luminance (very close to zero) means that text or interactive elements placed on this background must be very light and highly saturated to provide sufficient contrast. A minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 is recommended by WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using white (#FFFFFF) text on a #013556 background achieves a high contrast ratio, which is good. However, designers should avoid using smaller or thinner fonts, as they can become difficult to read. Careful consideration should also be given to users with low vision or color blindness, who may struggle to differentiate between shades of blue and other dark colors. Testing the color combination with accessibility evaluation tools is crucial to ensure usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Prussian Blue (#013556) can be used to create a sophisticated and calming aesthetic, particularly for websites related to finance, technology, or corporate services. It is often used for backgrounds, headers, or accent elements to convey trust and stability. However, due to its dark nature, it should be paired with lighter colors like white, cream, or light grey to ensure readability and accessibility. For instance, a website for a bank might use Prussian Blue for its header and navigation bar, with white text for clarity. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or interactive elements without sufficient contrast.
Interior Design
In interior design, Prussian Blue can add a touch of elegance and depth to a room. It is often used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative items. Prussian Blue walls can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, especially in bedrooms or living rooms. When using Prussian Blue in interior design, it's important to balance it with lighter colors like white, beige, or light grey to prevent the room from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can also complement Prussian Blue beautifully.
Fashion
In fashion, Prussian Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look. It is a popular color for suits, dresses, and outerwear, as it exudes confidence and authority. Prussian Blue clothing can be paired with neutral colors like black, white, or grey for a classic and timeless look. It can also be combined with brighter colors like yellow, orange, or pink for a more bold and contemporary style. Accessorizing with gold or silver jewelry can also enhance the elegance of Prussian Blue outfits.