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From colossal Shinto shrines to rural dwellings, Japan is home to a plethora of priceless crafts and collectibles. Be they devotional items made in the service of Buddhism or Shintoism, ceremonial costumes and accoutrements, works of art or objects of daily life, they offer an insight into Japanese culture and customs. All the objects showcased were either photographed in Japan, or taken from private and public collections worldwide; they run the gamut from elegant kimono and obi, netsuke and ojime, to household furniture and everyday items such as chopsticks, as well as decorations in religious and cultural centers.
Japan has always intrigued the world with its deceptively simple blending or architecture, art, landscape, and design – and of course the numerous works of art and collectibles that have emerged from this tradition. Things Japanese devles into the history, cultural significance and customs relating to over 60 different Japanese items from around the country. Be it a devotional piece, a work of art, an emblem, a household object or an item of clothing, each represents an aspect of Japanese customs and culture. Each item is photographed separately and detailed text offers an explanation of it historical and cultural significance.
• Hardcover • 144 pages • 125 color photos • Authors: Nicholas Bornoff & Michael Freeman
From the Publisher This gorgeous guide to Japanese life chronicles more than 60 native Japanese objects. Each object featured is accompanied by detailed text describing its historical significance and place in everyday Japanese life. You'll learn about the origins and uses of everything from folding paper fans to lacquerware combs to ceramic tea bowls. The perfect introduction to Japan, Things Japanese offers an innovative look into this diverse and fascinating culture.
About the Authors: Nicholas Bornoff & Michael Freeman In this twelve years of living in Japan, Nicholas Bornoff was film critic for The Japan Times and contributed articles about contemporary Japan to various magazines. His first book Pink Samurai: An Erotic Exploration of Japanese Society was published to critical acclaim in 1991. Now living in London with his Japanese wife and young son, Bornoff has written a book about Japan for schoolchildren, and authored the National Geogaphic Traveler Series Guide to Japan.
A full-time photographer extensively Michael Freeman has photographed extensively in Asia, both for magazines and numerous books. Among the latter are In the Oriental Style, Palaces of the Gods, Japan Modern, The Spirit of Asia and several titles on Angkor, Cambodia. Other works include books on Frank Lloyd Wright and American architecture. |
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