Cultural Story
Inca Red
Inca Red comes from Andean cochineal and red earth. The Inca Empire was the largest pre-Columbian empire; its vivid red textiles astonished Spanish conquerors. The Inca cultivated cochineal-bearing cacti in dry Andean valleys. Wild cochineal cacti still grow in the Cusco Valley near Machu Picchu.
Origin
From Andean cochineal and red earth.
Symbolism
Inca Red symbolizes the sun, power, and royalty.
Historical Origin
The Inca used cochineal for red dye, a 2,000-year tradition.
Traditional Applications
Textile
Ceremony
Painting
Related Poems
Sangre del imperio.