Living Handbook 79 (暮しの手帖 )

Edition for July August 1982

Seiji Fujishiro (藤城清治)

Born in Meguro Ward, Tokyo in 1924

Graduated from Keio University in economics but it was during his attendance at Keio General School where he learned about oil painting and etching. Known for his works in shadow puppetry known as Japanese kiri-e (paper cutting) which became his main focus following World War II. He was recognized by Yasuji Hanamori, the founder and editor-in-chief of this magazine due to their similar philosophies on war. His shadow puppet and painting works were featured in many editions since 1948 and after Hanamori died in 1978, Fujishiro took over with creating cover designs. Fujishiro also occasionally co-authored essays that would be featured in the magazine as well on top of still producing shadow puppet theater productions.

This cover features a painting of a woman floating in the sea. There are white birds flying in the background and the woman has a red hibiscus like flower in her hair and a orange, yellow, red gradient bathing suit. In the water, we are able to see various types of small fish swimming around the figure who has a very content facial expression. The color palette is vivid but soothing to the eye.