Medieval illuminated manuscripts often used crushed beetles for red pigment in their vibrant designs.
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Art
In the creation of medieval illuminated manuscripts, the brilliant red pigment known as carmine or cochineal was made from crushed beetles. These tiny insects, specifically cochineal bugs, were collected and dried, then ground into a powder to create the vibrant dye. The process was labor-intensive, making the pigment a precious resource. Gold leaf and other materials were also used to add decorative elements, contributing to the manuscript's stunning appearance.
