A sample of silk dyed with mauveine -- the name Perkin decided to give his newfound substance -- from 1860.
A sample of silk dyed with mauveine -- the name Perkin decided to give his newfound substance -- from 1860.
Courtesy National Museum of American History
A length of dress fabric and a silk skein both dyed with mauve, donated by Miss Annie Florence Perkin, daughter of William Henry Perkin, in 1947.
A length of dress fabric and a silk skein both dyed with mauve, donated by Miss Annie Florence Perkin, daughter of William Henry Perkin, in 1947.
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The exterior of Perkin's house, now demolished.
The exterior of Perkin's house, now demolished.
Science & Society Picture Library/SSPL/SSPL via Getty Images
Perkin in his old age. In 1906, the Society of Chemical Industry created the Perkin Medal to promote research in applied chemistry.
Perkin in his old age. In 1906, the Society of Chemical Industry created the Perkin Medal to promote research in applied chemistry.
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Queen Elizabeth II in a purple dress.
Queen Elizabeth II in a purple dress.
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Pantone released a new shade of purple in honor of Prince, in a nod to his song "Purple Rain."
Pantone released a new shade of purple in honor of Prince, in a nod to his song "Purple Rain."
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