(1) \startuseMPgraphic{name}{comma separated list of variables}

(2) \startuseMPgraphic{name}{comma separated list of key=value pairs}

In the second case one is able to set a default value to that variable, possibly to be overridden with \useMPgraphic{name}{key=value}.

I very much would like to specify default values on the \startuseMPgraphic definition of the graphic.

However, I cannot get option (2) working. Do I have a bad memory (possible of course ;-), Has it to be done otherwise?

In the example below the graphic myname1 is ok, but myname2 gives the following error:

metapost        > error: 

>> orange

! Improper type.

<to be read again> 

;

<*> ...raw unitsquare scaled 1cm withcolor orange;

minimal example:

\starttext

\startuseMPgraphic{myname1}{color}

pickup pencircle scaled 1mm;

draw unitsquare scaled 1cm withcolor \MPvar{color};

\stopuseMPgraphic

\startuseMPgraphic{myname2}{color=red}

pickup pencircle scaled 1mm;

draw unitsquare scaled 1cm withcolor \MPvar{color};

\stopuseMPgraphic

\useMPgraphic{myname1}{color=blue}

\useMPgraphic{myname2}{color=orange}

\stoptext