Tray Landscapes (Bonkei and Bonseki)

This book delves into the classical Japanese art forms of bonkei and bonseki, which involve creating miniature landscapes or waterscapes on small trays. It explores the materials and techniques used in these art forms, highlighting the differences between them. Bonkei primarily uses earth and tiny plants, while bonseki focuses on stones, pebbles, and sand. The text provides a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts, offering insights into the cultural significance and aesthetic qualities of these tray landscapes. It aims to make the art accessible to both novices and experienced practitioners, with detailed explanations and numerous illustrations.

Published 1962, Third edition.

Binding of book is slightly loose. Front cover is clean of foxing with fraying of edges. Back cover is clean of foxing with stains, fraying of edges, and scratches. Tear at top of spine with some fading. Slight tanning and some foxing on top, fore, and bottom edges. Some foxing and pencil annotations on endpapers. Slight foxing on certain pages, clean of annotations across pages. Slight tanning around margins of pages. Slight water damage to a few pages.

Condition: Well Read