The Art and Culture of Japan

by Nelly Delay

The ephemeral nature of the material realm is central to Japanese culture. Beauty and pleasure are fleeting, and the moment must be captured as it flies. Elegant palaces and serene monasteries are made of wood and paper; simple materials such as bamboo and raked pebbles are as precious as lacquer, silk, and gold leaf. From the formal rituals of archery and the tea ceremony to the colorful scenes of everyday life displayed in ukiyo-e prints, every gesture of art is calculated to open the consciousness to the world. This refined relationship between interior and exterior life, based on Zen traditions, is evident in many aspects of Japanese tradition, from the meditative order of gardens to the formalities of Kabuki and Nō theater.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1999

Reviews

[Erik]

Not a picture book only, but a clever and simple overview of Japanese culture and art. I found it invaluable recently for scouting out sights in Kyoto and Nara. I would welcome any comments from Japanese or people who know about Japan.

[Jennifer]

This book gives a really good overview of Japanese art and culture. It has smooth pages with lots of photos to show pieces of art, samurai swords, castles, large zen gardens and a few places that I've been to (which is cool to see in a book). I sometimes re-read this book.

[Sae-chan]

Very good introduction. Lots of nice pictures and adequate explanation. The excerpt of the Secret Book of Garden and the self caricature of Hokusai are my favorites.

[Nina]

Great introduction to the vast expanse of Japanese culture that is still able to capture its idiosyncratic beauty.