The word "Tutty" is often spelled in different ways, but its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈtʌti/. The word has a long history and was first used in the 16th century to describe a purified form of zinc oxide used in medicine. Over time, the spelling has changed, with variations like "tutia" and "tootie" appearing in literature. Modern English uses the spelling "tutty" to avoid confusion with other similar-sounding words. Regardless of spelling, the word refers to a substance with medical and artistic applications.
Tutty is a noun that refers to a bright yellow or orange pigment that is often used in traditional Chinese and Indian paintings. It is derived from the Arabic word "ṭūtiyah" meaning "a type of mineral" or "orpiment." Tutty has been used for centuries as a vibrant and luminous colorant in various artistic mediums.
Tutty is typically made from a mineral known as realgar, which is a naturally occurring arsenic sulfide compound. The mineral is grinded into a fine powder and then purified to remove impurities. The resulting powder has a strong yellow or orange hue with a distinctive brightness and vibrancy.
This pigment has a long history of usage in traditional Asian art, particularly in China and India. Artists utilize tutty to create vivid and eye-catching paintings, often incorporating it into landscape, floral, and animal depictions. The intensity and luminosity of tutty make it an ideal choice for capturing the vibrancy and energy of these subjects.
However, it is important to note that tutty is a toxic substance due to its arsenic content. Artists and users of this pigment should exercise caution and ensure proper safety measures are taken when handling or working with tutty. Furthermore, modern alternatives have been developed to replicate the color and effect of tutty without the associated health risks.
Impure oxide of zinc collected from the chimneys of smelting-furnaces.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tutty" has an interesting etymology. It is derived from the Latin word "tutia", which was originally used to refer to a medicinal substance made from zinc oxide. "Tutia" was borrowed from Arabic, where it was known as "tūtiyā".
Over time, the usage of "tutty" evolved to refer specifically to an impure form of zinc oxide, often used as a cosmetic powder or pigment. In medieval and early modern times, it was commonly used in paintings, cosmetics, and medicines. The word "tutty" also found its way into the field of alchemy, associated with the transmutation and purification of metals.
In contemporary usage, "tutty" is a less common term, with limited application in certain specialized contexts. However, its origins are rooted in its historical significance as a medicinal and artistic substance.