The Genius of Japanese Carpentry tells the story of the 1200-year-old Yakushiji monastery in Nara and the dedicated modern-day craftsmen who are working to restore what has been lost to the depredations of time; fire and warfare. Although the full monastery reconstruction will not be completed until 2030; one of the main temples; the Picture Hall; has been completely restored employing the same woodworking technology used to create the original building. This new edition of an architectural classic is by Azby Brownmdash;one of the worlds leading experts on Japanese architecture. It contains a new preface and many new text materials and photographsmdash;most of them now available in color for the first time. Azby Brown chronicles the painstaking restoration of the temple through extensive interviews with the carpenters and woodworkers along with original drawings based on the plans of master carpenter Tsunekazu Nishioka.An inspiring testament to the dedication of these craftsmen and their philosophy of carpentry work as a form of personal fulfillment; The Genius of Japanese Carpentry offers detailed documentation of this singular project and a moving reminder of the unique cultural continuity found in Japan.
2013-12-26 2013-12-26File Name: B00HRXQLMO
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Definitive work on this subjectBy Happy TenI have mixed emotions about this book. On the one hand; its clearly been written as a labor of love; thoroughly researched and well illustrated. On the other hand; I personally struggled with the read.As a reference resource; it definitely fills a void since I cant think of another book that so thoroughly covers this material. I will definitely retain as a reference for homes of this period.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Such a Great Resource!By Ryan D. HaywardWant to know more about City Living during the 18th and 19th centuries? This book is your go-to resource. Filled with a number of historic images; floor plans and primary resources; this text explores life as it was for some Americans during the transition from British Colony to the rise of the Victorian Era. It paints a different picture than the wealthy grand homes were all use to seeing as museums. The simple truth is most people didnt live that way and its reflected in this book. I highly recommend for anyone wants to learn more about this time.5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Unique and InsightfulBy Brian J. CushingAs a reenactor/interpreter of life in America in the late 18th/early 19th Centuries at various historic sights/events; I was very excited by this book. It has provided in depth understandings in ways I had never found before. Definitely one of my new favorite and most valuable resources.
