The Art and Architecture of Japan (The Yale University Press Pelican History of Art) (Paperback)

~ (Author), Alexander Soper (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Once slighted as mere copying from China, the arts of Japan are now seen as a unique alternation of advances and withdrawals. At times the islanders produced Chinese-style works of great beauty, unmatched on the continent. When they chose to be independent, their art differs at every level. Sculpture, and even more painting, are concrete, sensuous, and emotional, speaking directly to all. All that was most native in architectural taste survived the periods of Chinese monumentality - huge temples and gridiron city plans - with little change. The rambling, wood-paper-and-bamboo dwelling re-emerged 1000 years ago, almost as it may still be seen today.

Product Details

• Paperback: 522 pages
• Publisher: Yale University Press; 3 edition (November 25, 1992)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0300053339
• ISBN-13: 978-0300053333
• Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 6.3 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #427,451 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

28 of 29 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Authoritative, scholarly work on a focused subject., October 15, 1998

By A Customer

I purchased this book in my never ending pursuit of sholarly discourse on Japanese Buddhist sculpture. It is one thing to study sculpture and painting. It is quite another to understand it in the context of history and the architecture that housed it. Enlightening, to say the least, and meaningful reading. Its coverage of Buddhism and Buddhist art in Japan is noteworthy.

0 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Art and Architecture of Japan: Third Edition, November 19, 2006

By	A. Paterwic (Manchester, Ct. USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Book was in the condition it stated. Prompt delivery. I will use this seller again.