A Dictionary of Color Combinations

Product Information

I really need to republish my review of those markers some day, along with my translations of the color names. A Dictionary of Color Combinations” is a comprehensive guide providing inspiration and guidance for designers with a wide range of color palettes and insights into the psychology of color. The dictionary offers insights into the psychology of color and how different combinations evoke specific emotions and moods. Each named with reference to the seasons, and to plants, and animals, and the colors are often associated with social ranking.

I think most of the English names used in the book are rather ad hoc, while the Japanese terms would actually be recognised in certain specialised occupations, like kimono dyeing, Japanese style painting (or 'nihonga'), lacquerware making, 'ukiyo-e' woodblock printing, etc.

Printed Matter’s online catalog is one of the largest and most comprehensive databases of artists’ books and related publications. The only English language in the book are the color names; there is no other context, nor suggestions on how to use it. I recently stumbled upon a nice color book that is based on the original 6 volume colour dictionary by Haishoku Soukan.

It includes both traditional and unconventional color combinations, allowing for creative exploration and experimentation. The downside if you don't read Japanese is that you can't enjoy the beautifully imaginative Japanese colour words. The concept of "combining colors” was not generally recognized at the time, so, samplers of color combinations containing specific color combination patterns were highly unusual.

However, please note that certain products, such as books and posters, may not be able to be packed together.

This is a great, tidy reference—I’ve owned it for a couple weeks now and I think I’ll always keep it close for both printmaking and graphic design work (I was pleasantly surprised to find CMYK values for each swatch in the back of this book). A Dictionary of Color Combinations” is a comprehensive guide to color combinations and their harmonious use in various design applications.

Sanzo Wada was active as an artist,art school instructor,costume designer for the 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. The book is published in Japan and is based on the 6-volume work of kimono designer and teacher Sanzo Wada in the 1930s, a time when Japan was between wars, and was absorbing Western influences. Due to the fact that it doesn't exist (to my knowledge) I thought it would be great to have an interactive version of this amazing book.