Netsuke Masks

Netsuke Masks

Netsukes

First published in 1924, no book had ever before emerged dealing with Netsukes, one of the most fascinating and interesting forms of expression of the Japanese in art. Netsukes are the exquisitely carved and infinitely varied little knobs used by the Japanese to keep from slipping all kinds of articles which are hung from girdles. For collectors who cannot afford originals in most of the arts, Netsukes offer an alluring field. Here is a branch in which originals are accessible. The Netsuke is a work of art that can only exist once in this world. It is found in Japan only and like the leaves of the trees, there are never two pieces of it alike. This book describes, in a fascinating way, whether you are a collector or the subject is new to you, the use and various kinds of Netsukes, the method of their carving, their subjects, the many extant collections, their history and their mythology.

The Grove Encyclopedia of Decorative Arts

The Grove Encyclopedia of Decorative Arts covers thousands of years of decorative arts production throughout western and non-western culture. With over 1,000 entries, as well as hundreds drawn from the 34-volume Dictionary of Art, this topical collection is a valuable resource for those interested in the history, practice, and mechanics of the decorative arts. Accompanied by almost 100 color and more than 500 black and white illustrations, the 1,290 pages of this title include hundreds of entries on artists and craftsmen, the qualities and historic uses of materials, as well as concise definitions on art forms and style. Explore the works of Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames, and the Wiener Wekstatte, or delve into the history of Navajo blankets and wing chairs in thousands of entries on artists, craftsmen, designers, workshops, and decorative art forms.