投稿者: Welcome! Please, come this way. In our establishment, you can enjoy the melodies of classical music, the fragrance of cocktails, and the mystique of stones. Tonight, let me guide you to a story that perfectly suits you. As you savor the allure of cocktails with the strains of classical music, why not delve into the fascinating world of stones? So, for tonight, how about this story…
Stone of the Night: Lapis Lazuli
“The Stone of Blue Dreams”
～Sky-Diving～
Tonight’s cocktail is inspired by lapis lazuli, a blue gemstone treasured since ancient times for its noble color. Its hue, as deep as the sea or the night sky, captivates the heart of those who behold it. To replicate the color of lapis lazuli, this cocktail uses blue curaçao and white rum as its base, sweetened with lemon juice and syrup. The glass is sprinkled with blue sparkle, reminiscent of lapis lazuli sand, creating a glittering atmosphere. Drinking this cocktail might make you feel as if you’ve entered the world of lapis lazuli.
Lapis lazuli is primarily composed of the mineral lazurite, a sulfate mineral formed from sulfur and oxygen, known for its vivid blue color. It also contains other minerals like calcite, which appears as white clouds, and pyrite, shimmering like stars within. Lapis lazuli is a stone formed from this mix of various minerals. Revered since ancient times, it was a sacred stone in Ancient Egypt, used in royal and priestly ornaments and tombs. In Ancient Mesopotamia, it was worshipped as a celestial stone, believed to connect heaven and earth. In Ancient China, it was esteemed as a Buddhist stone, used in statues and religious artifacts. Thus, lapis lazuli has been a common symbol in both Eastern and Western cultures.
A painting inspired by lapis lazuli is the “Mona Lisa” at the Louvre Museum. Its original title is “La Gioconda,” meaning “the smiling lady” in Italian. Painted by Leonardo da Vinci during the Renaissance, it’s one of the world’s most famous paintings. The background features a blue sky and mountains, resembling the color of lapis lazuli, painted with ultramarine pigment made from the stone. This expensive pigment, once valued more than gold, was used generously by Leonardo to create a deep blue. This blue contrasts with the central female figure’s expression, mysterious and captivating, leaving viewers pondering her identity, thoughts, and reason for smiling. Like lapis lazuli, this painting presents a blue dream to its viewers.
[Léonard de Vinci (Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci, dit Leonardo da Vinci)Italy, Louvre Museum, Department of Paintings, MNR 265 – https://collections.louvre.fr/ark:/53355/cl010066723 – https://collections.louvre.fr/CGU]
The classical piece evoking lapis lazuli is Debussy’s “Clair de Lune.” This piano piece, a masterpiece of the French Impressionist composer, was originally part of his “Suite Bergamasque.” Its beauty and popularity have led to it being frequently performed independently. The piece expresses the shimmering of moonlit water, the stillness and mystery of the night. It begins with gentle melodies and harmonies, symbolizing moonlight reflecting on water. The pace quickens, like ripples spreading on the surface, then returns to the initial calm, representing the water becoming still again. The piece fades gradually, echoing the vanishing moonlight, deeply moving its listeners, much like the brilliance and color of lapis lazuli. (http://classical-sound.seesaa.net/)
Lapis lazuli is also associated with mines in Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan, among the world’s oldest, dating back to around 6000 BCE. Located on the Pamir Plateau, part of the Silk Road, these mines have been a primary source of lapis lazuli. Mined stones were transported through the Silk Road to the Middle East and Europe, significantly influencing their cultures and arts. For instance, many Qurans are adorned with lapis lazuli-like blue decorations. Renaissance artists in Europe used ultramarine made from lapis lazuli for their stunning blue paintings. Thus, lapis lazuli has deeply intertwined with global history and culture. However, these mines are now dangerous due to long-standing conflicts and wars in Afghanistan. Controlled by rebel forces and armed groups, they use lapis lazuli smuggling for funding. Workers face harsh conditions and safety risks. Lapis lazuli, while beautiful and mysterious, also brings sadness and suffering.
It seems we’ve chatted a bit too long. Look at the time! Did you enjoy this moment? I hope you relished the classical melodies, the charm of cocktails, and the mystique of stones. We strive to bring you new discoveries and excitement next time. Look forward to our next story. We eagerly await your