A Dictionary of Color Combinations - Vol.1

'Haishoku' — the concept of color combinations was not widely recognized during the Taisho to early Showa period. One of the first to focus on the necessity of color, Wada Sanzou edited 'Haishoku Soran' (a six-volume work, 1933–). It was a pioneering initiative and can be seen as a forerunner of Japan's color culture: a groundbreaking 'Haishoku Mihoncho' that presented concrete color combination patterns. This book reproduces the classic 'Haishoku Soran' in a newly bound, revised edition. The included color combinations reveal a universal sensibility that is gleaned not only from Taisho and Showa period materials but also remains applicable in contemporary practice.

◉ Includes 348 haishoku mihon (color combination samples)

◼ All color charts include CMYK values and color chips 

◼ Ideal for research and practical use across a wide range of fields, including color coordinators and interior coordinators

Wada Sanzou

In the early Showa period he emphasized the importance of color and founded the Japan Standard Color Association (now the Japan Color Research Institute), leaving a major legacy in color research. Also known as a Western-style painter, he was active across film, stage art, fashion design and other fields. In 1954 he won the Academy Award for costume design for 'Jigokumon'. He was recognized as a Person of Cultural Merit.

Commentary: Omi Gentaro (Chairman, Japan Color Research Institute Foundation)