What type of colors were primarily used in De Stijl artworks?

De Stijl, an art movement founded in the Netherlands in the early 20th century, is characterized by its use of a limited palette that primarily includes primary colors—red, blue, and yellow—as well as black, white, and gray. This use of primary colors reflects the movement's philosophy, which sought to express a new utopian ideal through abstraction and simplicity. The artists believed that these colors represented a universal aesthetic language, free from the emotional connotations often associated with other color choices.

By utilizing only primary colors alongside neutral tones, De Stijl artists aimed to create artworks that were not only visually striking but also embodying a sense of harmony and order. This approach is clearly seen in the works of prominent figures from the movement, such as Piet Mondrian, who employed geometric forms and a grid-like structure to further emphasize the purity of the colors used.

In contrast, pastel colors and earth tones do not align with the fundamental principles of De Stijl, as they introduce subtlety and complexity that diverge from the movement's call for simplification and abstraction. Neutral colors, while part of the palette, do not capture the essence of De Stijl as effectively as primary colors do, which are central to the visual identity of this influential