The History of Art in Japan

by Nobuo Tsuji, Nicole Coolidge Rousmaniere (Translator)

The leading authority on Japanese art history, from earthenware figurines in 13,000 B.C. to manga and modern subcultures, tells the story of how the country has nurtured unique aesthetics, prominent artists, and distinctive movements. Discussing Japanese art in various contexts, including interactions with the outside world, Nobuo Tsuji sheds light on works ranging from the Jōmon period to modern and contemporary art. Tsuji's perspective, using newly discovered facts, depicts critical aspects of paintings, ukiyo-e, ceramics, sculpture, armor, gardens, and architecture, covering thousands of years. This book, the first translation into English of Japan's most updated, reliable, and comprehensive book on the history of Japanese art, is an indispensable resource for all those interested in this multifaceted history.

Genres: Art, Japan, History, Japanese History, Nonfiction, Cultural, Read For School

631 pages, Hardcover

First published December 9, 2005

Reviews

[Dasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book begins in 13500 BCE with the Jomon period and extends into the post-war period (1945-1919). A dense book of over 450 pages, it is the authoritative text on Japanese art history. I appreciate the extensive descriptions and detailed analysis of the various art movements and the movement's connections to various political, social, religious and cultural events. I enjoyed reading Japan's history through its art. Moreover, Nobuo covers various different art types and styles, showing his expertise in the art world. The art images are high quality and plentiful. The notes section provides a robust collection of sources for further reading! An amazing book, worth the slightly high price tag.

[Nikko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly good and readable. I was most interested in the evolution of Buddhist art, which forms the bulk of the book and was superb.

[Taylor Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides a great survey of the history of art in Japan. From ancient ceramics to buddhist sculptures to architecture to ink paintings to caligraphy to anime, this book covers an incredible breadth of topics without just feeling like it is rattling off famous names with quick summaries. I enjoyed learning about how various external influences were absorbed and synthesized into something uniquely japanese, such as with buddhist temple adornments, chinese screen paintings, and european oil painting. I also liked it when the author would casually mention something like a master of the tea ceremony having to commit ritual suicide due to getting into an argument with the emperor.

[ISRA · Rating 2 out of 5]

Read for my college class Art of Japan. An ambitious book in terms of what the author wanted to cover. Not enjoyable to read.

Dense, very repetitive in the first 4-5 chapters since they focus on Buddhist art and the exchange of art and ideas via China. The end picks up in a way and other influences are introduced but is still dense with brackets of names and dates without real depth to the context just summary. Too much information without air to process it and truly value its weight in the development of Japanese art. And, unsurprisingly the modern and postmodern art portions are the most condensed… even rushed through in contrast to the earlier periods.

[Lexie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had to read for an art history course, but found myself wanting to read more and more of the book. It’s very informative as it starts in 13000 BCE through modern art, manga etc. The book takes you through different aspects of Japanese art like Buddhist, and other religious influences. Overall is a great read if you’re interested in learning more about Japanese art history.

[Emily Broach · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this for an art history class.

It’s a very well writing and goes into amazing detail, but unfortunately to me it was a tad boring. I am not the biggest fan of history books so I might be biased. I am giving it 4 stars because it is a great book otherwise.

[Kristene · Rating 3 out of 5]

https://booklvrslounge.blogspot.com/2...

[TL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible selection.

[Avery Jam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for school.

[carson · Rating 4 out of 5]

too many names, can’t pronounce.

[Nageen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great guide to Japanese art. I wish this was double the size.