Zen Oriental Art is an indispensable; beautifully illustrated introduction to the influences of Zen Buddhism on Oriental painting; folk art; and architecture; with a special section on the role of Zen in twentieth-century art and architecture in the West.Author; Dr. Munsterberg quite naturally begins with an explanation of Zen Buddhism itself; and the historical development of Zen in India and China. Zens particularly rapid adoption in Japan is covered in the next chapter; which is followed by sections on the Zen art of ink painting in both China and Japan. Also described are the influences of Zen on Japanese architecture; and the intimate connection of the religion with the Japanese tea ceremony. Of particular interest to Western readers is the chapter on Zen and twentieth-century Western art."A knowledgeable and affable guide." —The Japan Times"There is a peacefulness that comes over one just leafing through this book." mdash;Antiquarian Bookman
#2204326 in eBooks 2011-09-23 2011-09-23File Name: B007C9X74S
Review
2 of 3 people found the following review helpful. remarkably enjoyableBy A. C.(so far) The most readable and enjoyable of the ethnographic texts that I have covered.Even if you arent a folklorist or anthropologist. this has a broad appeal and is pleasant reading.For Americans. I recommend it for the flight over if you go visit Ireland. in order to gain some perspective on(one) local rural culture. and the background of Irelands subtle tensions. without being a dry history text.1 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Required for a course readingBy Matthew HoneckIts a very interesting anthropology book. but given Im not an avid reader I had difficulty maintaining interest. But it was very good.
