The First Full Page Color Cosmetics Advertisement in Japan

A rare chance to see an original artifact from Japanese advertising and printing history. The Beni Museum is dedicated to the history and varied uses of beni red pigment extracted from safflower and commonly used in make up and fabric dyes. This special exhibit will showcase the first ever full page, full color cosmetics advertisement, from the January 1st edition of the Mainichi Shimbun in 1952. Pre-dating the boom of color photography and color television in the 1960s, this early example used artificial coloring to create its eye-catching effect. A must see for anyone interested in the history of cosmetics, newspapers or advertising.

Image: ©Beni Museum Official Twitter Account