Japonisme: Cultural Crossings Between Japan and the West

by Lionel Lambourne

Coined by a French art critic in 1876, the term Japonisme was used to describe the craze for all things Japanese. Van Gogh copied Ukiyo-e prints, and art nouveau potters introduced flowing, organic themes, first seen in Japanese ceramics. This book presents a broad survey of the West's extraordinary love affair with Japan, beginning with the first contacts in the sixteenth century, and culminating in the artistic frenzy that swept Europe and America in the second half of the nineteenth century. For the first time, Lionel Lambourne also uncovers the countercurrent of Western influence on Japan. The book reviews not only the fine and the decorative arts but also interior decoration, costume and fashion accessories, literature and the theatre, travel, and gardens and plants

Genres: Art, Japan, Art History, Reference, Academic, History

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book that made me want to become an art historian. After reading the section on nature and discovering Monet’s influence from Japanese prints, I was fascinated and in awe of how beautiful cultural collaboration could be. There were so many connections and links that I never would have thought were possible that I discovered in this book. It took me through a journey of discovery , honestly it was a fun adventure.

The printing was phenomenal as well, the colour really popped out

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book reviewing the opening of Japan to the West in 19 century and the follwing impact of Japanese art and crafts on Western Art. This is a known phenomenon, frequently mentioned in books on Art nouveau, symbolism etc, but so far I never seen this topic treated so well and in so many details. The book is also a pleasurable example good design and printing. Nice cover, paper, illustration, and text design. Kudos to Phaidon publishers and the author.

[Gunnar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book with lots of photos and interesting facts and stories. It was in no way dry nor boring, kept me compelled all through the book. I recommend this to anyone with an interest in impressionism.

[Sissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent, it brought a new perspective that I appreciated. I would have loved more Japanese voices but the pictures are fantastic!