In Magic in Ancient Egypt, Geraldine Pinch records that although the colours of clothing, utensils or ingredients used in magic were carefully chosen, Egyptian colour-terms do not directly correspond with our own. Shades of yellow, red and orange can all be described by one word because they all occur in fire. Black and green were positive and powerful colours linked with growth and regeneration. Blue and turquoise were heavenly colours. Red was a very powerful colour linked with the solar deities; this power could be harnessed by the magician by using the red ribbons of the seven Hathors. The colour was also associated with Set and the ink made from flaming red poppies was used in writing spells to invoke him.
[British Museum Press]
[British Museum Press]
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