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Dragon's Blood
#8B0000 · click to copy
Warm
HEX
#8B0000
RGB
139, 0, 0
CMYK
0%, 100%, 100%, 45%
Pigment
NR31
Lightfastness
Poor (IV) — fades significantly in UV light
Moods & Keywords
red
dark
deep
mythological
ancient
mysterious
dramatic
Pigment & Material
NR31
Natural
Dracorubin and dracorhodin compounds from Dracaena and Daemonorops plant resins. Still used in violin varnishes today.
Origin & History
Dragon's blood has been traded since ancient times — mentioned by Greek, Roman, and Arab writers. Pliny the Elder described it in his Natural History (77 CE). It was used as a pigment, varnish, and medicine. The Socotra Island dragon blood tree (Dracaena cinnabari) produces a brilliant red resin that formed an important trade commodity along ancient spice routes.
Also Known As
Sanguis Draconis
Sang de Dragon
Drachenblut
Psychology
Mysterious, ancient, and powerful. The name alone carries mythological weight — it connects colour to the most potent creature of human imagination. The deep, slightly brown-red of dragon's blood suggests hidden power, old magic, and the intensity of life force itself.
In Culture
Used in traditional Chinese medicine for blood disorders and wound healing. In Ayurvedic medicine (called "Rakta Chandan" — blood sandalwood). Historically used in voodoo and folk magic practices. The Stradivarius connection (though disputed) has made it a subject of fascination for violin makers and musicians. Still used in incense and perfumery.
Natural Sources
Resin from Dracaena trees (Dracaena draco, Dracaena cinnabari) — found in Socotra Island (Yemen), Canary Islands, and Morocco. Also from Daemonorops draco (rattan palm) in Southeast Asia. The deep red resin oozes from the tree when cut, resembling blood.
Making It Yourself
Obtain dragon's blood resin (available from art supply or herbal shops):
1. Dissolve small pieces in ethanol (alcohol)
2. Strain through fine cloth
3. Use the solution as a transparent red-brown varnish or watercolour
4. For oil paint: dissolve in turpentine, add stand oil
Note: poor lightfastness — use in protected works or for experimental purposes.
1. Dissolve small pieces in ethanol (alcohol)
2. Strain through fine cloth
3. Use the solution as a transparent red-brown varnish or watercolour
4. For oil paint: dissolve in turpentine, add stand oil
Note: poor lightfastness — use in protected works or for experimental purposes.
Art Movements
Medieval Illuminated Manuscripts
Renaissance Varnishes
Traditional Lacquerwork
Famous Works
Used as varnish component in Stradivarius violins (disputed)
Medieval manuscript illuminations
Traditional Chinese lacquerware
Available As
Natural Pigments — Dragon's Blood Resin
Zecchi (Florence) — Sangue di Drago
Herbal suppliers — Dragon's Blood resin chunks
Note: rarely found in commercial artist paint lines due to poor lightfastness
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Colour data compiled with AI. Spot an error or have more to add? Leave a Note — ekphra reviews and updates.
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