Traditional Themes in Japanese Art

by Charles R. Temple

Traditional Themes in Japanese Art presents a wide selection of colorful figures and fascinating events from Japanese history, mythology, legend, and folklore in easy to read descriptive entries, which depict the many recurring themes in the works of Japanese artists. Readers are introduced to gods and goddesses, princes and poets, fighters and farmers, merchants and mendicants. Malicious ghosts appear as themselves, in human or in animal guise, often tormenting those who see them. Benevolent and malevolent wizards comfort or abuse human beings. Mischievous demons abound; dragons let water flow or withhold it from parched landscapes; shape shifters, like the tea-kettle badger, bring evil into the world; sparrows make a gift of gold, silver, jewels, and rich silk fabrics to a poor peasant. Torments are delivered by supernatural beings along with destructive and bloody wars between family clans for political power. A convenient reference tool, this book brings a thorough understanding of Japanese art and culture to the reader. This indispensable resource will help students, historians, gallery owners, art dealers, and anyone requiring quick and accessible knowledge on a particular Japanese theme.

376 pages, Paperback

First published October 15, 2008

Reviews

[Eric Knudson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good source for thematic interpretation of various types of Japanese art/craft items, especially netsuke and okimono.