Things Japanese

by Nicholas Bornoff (Text), Michael Freeman (Photos)

Traditional Japanese design imbues objects with a sense of history and artistry that easily reaches across cultural boundaries. In Things Everyday Objects of Extraordinary Beauty and Significance , author Nicholas Bornoff and photographer Michael Freeman examine over 60 traditional objects that are uniquely Japanese, deftly illustrating their beauty and significance.

Each item is described in loving detail alongside lovely full-color photographs that highlight the great artistry and craftsmanship in everyday items used by real people in traditional Japan. Things Japanese is the perfect book for Japanese antique collectors or anyone interested in Japanese art and the culture and history of Japan.

Genres: Japan, Nonfiction, Reference, History, Travel, Art

143 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Smiley · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is my delight to read the author's knowledgeable narration on the four topics totaling 56 things Japanese supplemented by their HD photos; the topics are as follows, 1) House and Garden (18 things), 2) Possessions and Clothing (14), 3) Eating, Drinking and Entertainment (11), and 4) Custom and Religion (13). The more we read and watch each photo, I think, we simply cannot help admiring both authors' expertise (Text by Nicholas Bornoff, Photos by Michael Freeman); this book has obviously been created out of their love of Japan itself. Thus, it could be informally and reasonably regarded as a treasure-like reference that widens our horizon on some of those obscurely known Japanese things by means of his informative narration and his colleague’s impressive color photos in which, possibly, we would rarely read or see on other books in the same genre.

To test how many Japanese things we have known, therefore, three things would be listed from the ones with which might be vaguely/clearly familiar from our experience. [The answers provided below.]
1) Tatami, Futon, Bonsai Basami
2) Kimono, Obi, Tabako
3) O-hashi, Nihon-shu, Hyotan
4) Maneki-neko, Origami, Cha Dogu
Answers:
1) tatami mats, futons, bonsai shears
2) kimono, kimono sashes, tobacco paraphernalia
3) chopsticks, sake paraphernalia, gourds
4) beckoning cats, origami, tea ceremony utensils

Interestingly, the author has consequently narrated each “thing” from its background, its popularity and its related tales (if any). From the 4 lists of those 12 things above, since some 10-20 years ago it seems to me I have long been familiar with “Maneki-neko” (beckoning cats) in all kinds of marketing venues like selling booths, shops, restaurants, etc. I thought they were from China and left my guess at that till I read the story and realized it was half correct since “There is little doubt that the beckoning cat emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868); the oldest examples date back to the mid 17th century.” (p. 123) However, some of us may wonder if raising each paw signifies anything different and this is the solution: “The ones with the right paw raised are for general good luck; a raised left paw specifically augurs financial gain.” (p. 123)

I could not help admiring Japanese way of regarding the cat as a lucky animal so there are cat temples or feline cemeteries near a Buddhist temple, I liked this unique story at first sight/reading and found it inspiringly moving:

… “If only you were a man,” he (the abbot of Gotoku-ji in Tokyo) lamented one stormy day to his pet cat, “you could go out and earn some money!” With that, the cat bounded out into the rain! Meanwhile, Ii Naomasa (1590-1659), the great lord of Hikone castle in Ii province, was entering Edo after a long journey along the Tokaido road with his retainers. All were soaked; along the way they saw the black cat sitting before a temple gate. As they passed, it raised its paw. Interested, Naomasa dismounted and went towards it, whereupon the cat walked a few paces and sat down again, beckoning with its paw. Following the cat, Naomasa was led to the abbot, who offered them shelter for the night. Having noted how dilapidated the temple was, Naomasa was moved by the extreme poverty of this generous priest and decided to reward him. … (p. 123)

[Yue · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this phrase" a heightened awareness of the importance of preserving the past in Japan, because I can imagine that most "things Japanese" are disappearing with the younger generation.

This book is a short encyclopedia of things in Japanese culture. The sections are:

- House and Garden
- Possessions and clothing
- Eating, drinking and entertainment
- Custom and religion

The author shares some personal experiences, and also mentions frequently passages of the book Japanese Homes and Their Surroundings.

[Jason Keenan · Rating 4 out of 5]

When you start talking about Japan, it’s pretty much a given that pretty soon the conversation will turn to design – whether it’s technology, knives, or kimonos. Japan has a rich tradition of the highest level of artistry in daily objects.

Things Japanese offers a great introduction to a few dozen of the unique objects that make up the foundations of Japanese culture – whether it’s wonderful ceramics or handmade lacquerware. Nice pictures and short histories of the type of object being profiled serve the mission of a brief exposure to the visible elements of the culture.

Many of these items have become historical objects rather than for daily use – and you may find yourself wanting many of them yourself. A great introduction.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

fun book, perfect guide if you happen to find yourself rummaging around antique stores looking for old Japanese goods.