The Dictionary of
Color Combinations

Kamakura era · bold · solemn

Red Lead & Ink 鉛丹と墨

The dense orange-red of lead oxide pigment struck against ink black.

鉛丹

Entan

#C8411D

Red lead orange

墨

Sumi

#1C1C1C

Ink black

黄金

Kogane

#D4AF37

Gold

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About this combination

Entan — red lead — was the pigment of temple pillars and warning marks. Paired with sumi ink, it is the color of shrine gates at night: ceremonial, sharp, a little dangerous.

Where it works

  • Film posters with historical themes
  • Editorial for drama and stage
  • Branding that needs danger without looking cheap

Historical context

This palette is inspired by the tradition of Sanzo Wada's 1933 Dictionary of Color Combinations, which cataloged combinations drawn from centuries of Japanese cultural life. The specific colors here use traditional shikisai names that have been in the public domain for generations.

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From the editorial · Long read

Heian Court Color Theory: Kasane, Kinjiki, and the Seasonal Palette

How the Heian imperial court systematised colour into layered-robe combinations (kasane no irome), forbidden pigments (kinjiki), and a 12-month seasonal calendar.

Read the article →

More from this collection

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Related combinations

Three palettes with a similar feel.