A phthalocyanine compound (1) of a specific structure excelling in ability to absorb near infrared, ability to effect selective absorption of near infrared radiation particularly in a wavelength range exceeding 920 nm and falling short of 1050 nm, solubility in a solvent as well, compatibility with resin, and in such characteristic properties as heat resistance, light resistance, and weatherability, and a near infrared absorbing filter characterized by using the phthalocyanine compound (1) and phthalocyanine compound (2) having a maximum absorption wavelength at least in the range of 800 920 nm are provided. It enjoys a long service life and permits extensive use without selecting a substrate.