The Book of Tea

I love hardbacks, and the quality of this edition is spectacular. I love the book itself, but with the addition of a superb forward providing a detailed context for the author and his life, as well as an informative afterward describing the early tea industry in Japan, it was even better than expected!

This is the second version of "The Book of Tea" I have owned. This version has some good photographs and an extensive introduction. This book is a must have for anyone with any level of interest in Taoism, Zen, Teaism, Tea, or Japanese culture and it's relations with the West. The writer also includes a chapter on art appreciation and flower arrangement, and the influence of Teaism on those particular arts, among others.Okakura Kakuzo was a wordsmith beyond poetic in his prose descriptions of the Orient. His observations about America and western ways are incisive and deep. There is a reason he is so revered by those who know.

Okakura Kakuzo was an important influence on the Gardner circle to this day and his insights brought a clarity to the movement toward the modern age and the wisdom of the past setting a precursor to the spirit of the modern soon to emerge at the Armory show. this book, only outwardly about tea, calls to the artistic spirit in all. a good edition of a timeless classic belonging in the library of every artist- though it will spend most of its time in studio, or at bedside.

I’m interested in the influence of Japanese design on the Frank Lloyd Wright work. I found many interesting perspectives on the Japanese esthetic, but also on the Americans who were attracted to the Japanese art and helped build several collections in the IS.

A great book for anyone who enjoys learning more about the mingling of eastern and western cultures. Okakura made a statement in the Boston area, and he influenced many greats such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Georgia O' Keeffe. This book was a gift, and it surprised me, you can't judge a book by it's cover!

Very informative and extremely interesting insight into the Japanese culture. I would definitely recommend this book.

Well written. Enjoyed the historical context portion as much as the original text.

When I buy a new book, I like it to look pristine. Instead, there was a smudge several inches long on the outside cover.