Opening with an introduction that asks ‘What is Japanese art?,’ this book presents a selection of striking and fascinating art from Japan, organised into a series of thematic chapters in which the author provides cultural context while pointing out exceptional features. By showing the complete artwork alongside enlarged details—sometimes virtually invisible to the naked eye—intriguing comparisons can be drawn between seemingly unrelated pieces.

The selection of illustrations evokes the hand and eye of the most accomplished Japanese craftsmen and women. Offering a superb insight into Japanese art, the book highlights—close up and in colour—outstanding examples of design and craft in prints, paintings, screens, metalwork, ceramics, wood, stone and lacquer, providing endless creative inspiration.