The Art of East Asia

Rating:
Summary: if one could only have one book on Asian art, this is it
Review: I'm currently taking my first course in Asian Art history, and I wish we were using this text! The Art of East Asia is eloquently and insightfully written and stunningly produced. The authors do an excellent job of bringing the art into the historical and cultural contexts of the time periods when it was produced. The color photographs are plentiful, large, and beautifully printed -- this is an important point, as black and white photos fail to capture the details of either fine brushwork or three dimensional pieces. This book is a tremendous value; it is far superior to other volumes costing almost twice as much. The only limitation to be aware of is that it does not include the art of India.

Rating:
Summary: The best introduction to a complex and facinating subject
Review: The entire book is a mine of information complemented by wonderful photographs. It is perhaps the best introduction to an ancient and profound culture. The Japanese and Korean section is a must for any person seriously interested in trying to understand what is a complex and usually inaccessible subject. In particular the masterful text on Japan by Michael Dunn illuminates the often misunderstood area of the overwhelming influence of Zen on Japanese Art. He should be encouraged to write in more detail on subjects with which he has such a commanding knowledge and insight.

Rating:
Summary: Exceptional value, brilliant insi
Review: This book manages to present East Asian art without mystification, but also without academic stuffiness.An extraordinary combination! If you want an accessible (but not vulgar) introduction to the subject that will whet your appetite for more, this is the book. The illustrations are exceptional. It's incredible that the publisher can put this kind of quality out for the price.