Anatomy of color

Basic colors became popular in post-war kitchens because they reflected the practicality and economy of the period, emphasizing the connection with minimalism and simplicity. The Art Deco era favored clean lines and pastel shades, as it reflected the restraint and elegance of the time, and emphasized a belief in progress and modernity.

This illustrated history of color and paint in interior decoration answers these questions and more, examining the evolution of pigments and paint colors along with color systems and standards from the 1650s to the 1960s. Drawing on a vast archive, author, historian and paint specialist Patrick Beaty examines the impact of industrial production on the texture and durability of paint, as well as the color standards of the 20th century.

The book contains over 1,500 illustrations, including reproductions of interiors from home decor books dating from various eras, highlighting the color trends and painting styles characteristic of each period.