A Dictionary of Color Combinations

Seigensha, 2011. Softcover, 354pp., 4.5 x 6 inches

New

Based on Sanzo Wadsa’s original 6-volume work from the 1930s, this book illustrates 348 color combinations with a full index.

This book presents a collection of 348 color combinations originated by Sanzo Wada (1883-1967) who—during the early Showa era, in a time of increasingly avant-garde and diversified use of color—was quick to focus on the importance of color and laid the foundation for contemporary color research.

Wada was active in Japan as an artist, art school instructor, costume designer for movies and the theater, and kimono and fashion designer who employed his extensive and versatile talents to do innovative work that centered primarily on visual perception and form.

His 6-volume classic Haishoku Soukan (The complete collection of color combinations), from which this book is derived, was published from 1933 to 1934.

The book not only presents color combinations that are an important record from the Taisho and Showa periods; readers may also perceive a universal sensitivity towards color that can be applied in daily life today.