Geisha : A Unique World of Tradition, Elegance and Art

Rating:
Summary: Amazing resource
Review: I had never seen this book physically when I ordered it and was very pleased when it arrived on my doorstep. This hefty volume is a wealth of information, even for those who have already studied geisha culture and know a good deal of the terminology, ceremonies and details of the unique way of life and its related artistic and historical implications. I can't imagine a more detailed factual research source on the subject; this book really has it all. There is also an array of photographs of maiko and geiko in their respective regalia partaking in the business, artistic as well as personal aspects of their lives.

One of the most unique elements of the book is the inclusion of the sections of translucent vellum paper, which reveal the layers of a kimono ensemble and the progressive steps involved in the making-up of a geisha's face. This creative idea made for an interesting addition to an already fine book.

If I had to choose two resources on geisha culture to introduce an unfamiliar party with the subject, I would select _Geisha_ by Liza Dalby for her thoughtful, personal story told through a discerning anthropologist's eye, and _Geisha: a Unique World of Tradition, Elegance and Art_ for its comprehensive, detailed but more objective view of the subject. The information they encompass brings a mysterious, insular world into clear focus for the curious and eager-to-learn outsider.

Rating:
Summary: Geisha : A Unique World of Tradition, Elegance and Art
Review: Since the turn of the 19th century, the Western world has been fascinated by the image of geisha, the Japanese "flower and willow world." Biographies, fiction, nonfiction, theatrical works, photography, movies, and television shows continue to appear, trying to depict and understand this erotic and mysterious Japanese tradition. In this most recent full and detailed account on the topic, Gallagher, an Ireland-born writer and translator residing in Japan, provides a thorough coverage of geishas' training, attire, etiquette, crafts, social network, and their interplay with the changing Japanese society. Lavish illustrations with multiple vellum overlays reveal geishas' makeup, hairstyle, ornaments, and kimono costume. Also discussed are dance, the tea ceremony, and seasonal activities in hanamachi, or "flower town." This heavily illustrated book offers the reader a taste of the unique sensibility of leisure in Japanese culture. With useful references, a bibliography, Internet resources, a glossary, and an index, this is a worthy addition to the subject. Recommended for large collections in public and academic libraries.

Rating:
Summary: An unrivaled pictorial (and written) look at the geisha
Review: These days it seems that books on geisha are becoming more numerous. Having previewed the entire work at a local store this evening, I decided to go ahead and order this online because it offers numerous pictures of not only the geisha, but traditional buildings and locations, an engaging discussion on part of the author (who is not above discussing how geisha affected persons ranging from Maria Callas to Madonna), and does not overly politicize their existence.

Many of the other books on geisha on Amazon.com are probably just as thorough, but none that I have seen can offer really the sheer number of color photos nor detailed illustrations of the traditional clothes worn by a geisha. One of the unique features of this book are the vellum overlays that dissect what the geisha wears from outside to inside. It's enormously helpful to those who in addition to wanting to know about the geisha, wants to know what they wore in great detail and the kind of places they may have dwelt and walked in traditional Kyoto and Edo.

This is a great introduction to the world of geisha as well as certain traditional cultural aspects of Japan, and any reader will certainly know more after reading and looking through this book and have a thorough appreciation for the traditions symbolized by the geisha.