The second volume of this beautiful pocket-sized book from Seigensha Publishing reveals two more works by Sanzo Wada. Published in 1935–1936 and 1938, respectively, this book presents 72 colour patterns themed on the Japanese seasons and another 165 drawn from early to mid-twentieth-century fashion, interior, and graphic design, created by artist, teacher, costume and kimono designer.
Wada helped to lay the foundations for contemporary colour research in the turbulent Showa period between the wars. As the English translation says 'This book not only present colour combinations that are an important record from the Taisho and Showa periods; readers may also perceive a universal sensitivity toward colour that can be applied in daily life today.
A continuation of the first that builds upon itself. Less American and Eurocentric like the previous with more colors and added patterns that the first book didn't have. Hex codes are in the back with cutouts. It's pocket size as well so it's great to take along with you.
My step daughter gave me Sanzo Wada A Dictionary of Color Combinations in 2 volumes, re-publishing Wada’s pioneering work from the thirties.
Volume one contains 348 of his combinations; of two, three or four colours. Volume two develops the concept further, identifying combinations of up to eight colours in a thematic fashion, related to specific subjects: seasons, months of the year, book design, wrapping paper, clothing especially kimono, tapestry, earthenware and lacquerware, all of which are illustrated with designs using the combinations.
There is one floral design using Citrine, Naples Yellow, Seashell Pink, Grenadine Pink, Eosine Pink, Pale King’s Blue and Violet Blue. The names are enough to transport you.