The Colour Index: The Past, Present and Future of Colorant Classification

The evolution of the present Colour Index is discussed with reference to nineteenth and early twentieth century English, German and French classifications, as well as to previous editions of the Index. Details of the first, second and third editions are described and comments made on future developments. Based on lectures given at meetings of the Bradford Student Section, the West Riding Region jointly with the Leeds Student Section, the Manchester Student Section, and the Midlands Region of the Society of Dyers and Colourists.