The arts of Japan

" "This book," in the words of the author, "represents an attempt to fill a long-felt need for an account of the history of Japanese art which would deal with the crafts as well as with the so-called fine arts and carry the story of Japanese art up to the present day instead of ending with the death of Hiroshige." The reader will quickly perceive how well this aim has been achieved. Here, in a stimulating and informative text and 121 well-selected plates--12 in full colour--is a dynamic treatment of the various influences that have shaped the course of Japanese art history in the fields of painting, sculpture, architecture, and handicrafts. Discussed with challenging insight are the impact of the various Indian and Chinese schools, the pervasive influence of Zen philosophy, and the many other artistic developments, giving the reader a well-rounded picture of the great significance and contribution of Japanese art. Special features of the book are sections on handicrafts and a chapter o