Kokeshi: Wooden Treasures of Japan - Softcover

Michael Evans; Robert Wolf

4.86

7 ratings by Goodreads

9780975957004: Kokeshi: Wooden Treasures of Japan

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0975957007 ISBN 13: 9780975957004

Publisher: Vermillion Publishing, 2005

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This gorgeous new 232 page book - the only comprehensive book on the subject in English and in print - captures the charm of these wooden treasures with 224 full color plates of the very best examples of both traditional and creative Kokeshi dolls from all regions of Japan. The cover is unusual and has the look and feel of hand-crafted binding (Purfect Bound). Size: 6-9/16” x 11” x 3/4”. Kokeshi: Wooden Treasures of Japan, is a modern exploration of a folk craft two centuries old. This timely publication reflects both the growing interest in Japan and Japanese culture in the West, and the rediscovery of folk art, traditional crafts and culturally unique handmade objects. Beyond simple visual charm, the book presents an entirely new way of appreciating Kokeshi. By exploring the variety, diversity, and historical uniqueness of Kokeshi, the dolls become - beyond a delight to the eye - an important representation of a culturally rich and creative society. Familiar examples along with rare and lesser-known dolls are presented according to traditional or creative association. Special attention is given to dolls of the ten traditional Kokeshi families, as well as creative dolls depicting popular folk legends and figures. Kokeshi by representative artists, and regional and religious dolls are also included. To complete this publication, artists’ marks, signatures and places of origin are illustrated. This book is an essential reference for the serious collector, and a fascinating education for anyone interested in folk dolls, traditional arts, or Japanese culture. This book received an award by the Independent Publishers Association for 2005.

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About the Author:

Michael Evans received his undergraduate degree from San Diego State University in Graphic Communication. He retired from Arizona State University where he was Director of Student Services within the College of Architecture and Environmental Design. Robert Wolf received his first professional degree from Southern Illinois University under R. Buckminister Fuller, and his master's degreee in Design from the University of Missouri. Robert is Emeritus Professor/Director of the School of Design within the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at Arizona State University, where he directed the professional programs of Interior Architecture, Industrial Design, and Graphic Design. Michael and Robert returned to the Monterey Peninsula to open Vermillion Asian Arts in 1998. The gallery, located in Carmel, California, focuses on Japanese antiques, contemporary crafts, and publications that support the appreciation of the Japanese culture.

Review:

This publication is a beautiful object in its own right, clarifying history, leavened with nuances of cultural history and custom. --Martha Drexler Lynn Ph.D., former associate curator of decorative arts at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

This gorgeous book, the only one in English and reflects the growing interest in a culturally & creatively rich society. --Melia Childress, Media Salad

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