A Dictionary of Color Combinations – Quick-Reference Notes

Background & Purpose

• Originally published as $Haishoku\ Soukan$ (Complete Collection of Color Combinations) in $(1933\text{-}1934)$.
• Revised as “A Dictionary of Color Combinations” to preserve and modernize Sanzo Wada’s work.
• Aimed to systematize color pairing at a time when the concept of “color combinations” was novel in Japan.
• Serves as both an historical record of Taishō–Shōwa aesthetics and a practical reference for contemporary designers.

Author — Sanzo Wada $(1883\text{–}1967)$

• Painter, art-school instructor, stage & film costume designer, kimono/fashion designer.
• Pioneer in Japanese color research; emphasized visual perception and form.

Book Structure

• Total color combinations: $(348)$ sets.
  • Two-color sets: pages labeled “2色の配色” (001–096).
  • Three-color sets: “3色の配色帖” (097–216).
  • Four-color sets: “4色の配色帖” (217–348).
• Each set shows swatches, Japanese and English color names, and internal code numbers.
• Closing section lists CMYK breakdowns for every swatch.

Naming & Coding System

• Numeric code (e.g., 024), Japanese kana name, Romanized English name.
• Some historical/poetic Japanese terms (e.g., “蒸栗色 Mushikuri-iro” $=$ Sulphur Yellow).
• Repeated use of older Western pigment names: “Isabella,” “Citrine,” “Mars Brown.”

CMYK Conversion Key

• Final pages map each swatch code to a $C!M!Y!K$ formula (e.g., "Hermosa Pink $C0\ M30\ Y6\ K0$").
• Allows quick digital reproduction without colorimeter.

Historical & Cultural Context

• Early Shōwa era: rapid Western influence, rise of avant-garde art & print media.
• Book acted as a “sampler” when printing & dye industries needed standardized palettes.

Practical Uses Today

• Quick inspiration for graphic, textile, UI, and interior design.
• Ready-made palettes reduce trial-and-error in harmonizing hues, values, chroma.
• CMYK table enables direct print application.

Key Takeaways

• Combining colors systematically was revolutionary $\sim$ $90$ years ago; Wada’s taxonomy still works.
• Palettes balance traditional Japanese tones with imported pigments, giving timeless versatility.
• Remember the three tiers: $2$, $3$, $4$-color schemes; pick a dominant hue, add accent/support per Wada.
• For exams: know publication years, total combinations $(348)$, author’s multi-disciplinary role, and importance of CMYK table for modern use.