Artistic Interpretation of Kirlee in color (Chuck Lawson / Tabatha Holtz)

It is a matter of considerable debate what Kirlee's actual color was.

Accounts in the literature include Black, Black Smoke, Blue, "Mole Grey" and "Mole Brown" (British moles are apparently a "slate grey" in color).  We know from his offspring that Black, Black Smoke, Blue, and Blue Smoke were all genetically possible.   The only surviving pictures of Kirlee (displayed on preceding page) are in black and white, and while they may prompt considerable discussion,  they cannot be considered reliable evidence.  Much of what we view in the pictures can be the result of lighting effects when the photo was taken, plus the combined effects of interpretation by various photo processors, printers, and (now) scanning and digital editing.  To illustrate the latter point, compare the "Kirlee in Color" image above to the image that it was started with (below),

as well as to the black and white image on the previous page and you'll begin to understand how much of a role such interpretation can play.

It does appear to be clear from looking at the photos as a group, however, that Kirlee's color was by no means even, with considerable "lightening" on the upper body, sides and head.  This could be indicitive of either the effects of the smoke (inhibitor) gene, or of an "unsound" or sun-bleached black. 

What we can all see and agree upon in the photos, however, is what a striking, well-coated example of the Devon breed Kirlee was, and how faithfully the Devon fanciers have kept to the example that Kirlee set as the foundation cat to an entire breed.

Update
Ross Taylor of Arahanta Cattery recently had occasion to correspond with Alison Ashford (Annelida) and ask her for clarification regarding this matter. Her response, as printed in Cats, the official journal of the UK's GCCF, is as follows: