Originally published in France, this exquisite book traces Japanese calligraphy from its Chinese origins to contemporary masters. Boudonnat and Kushizaki, who have collaborated on several books on Japanese culture (e.g., The Way of Incense), here offer a feast for the eye. With 130 breathtaking illustrations from master calligraphers of all major styles and periods, and with a fluid writing style, this book provides a rare comprehensive look at Japanese calligraphy, the first published in English on the subject. The text covers the earliest traces of Chinese script and later development of various Chinese calligraphy styles, then discusses the evolution of the Japanese language and new aspirations of Japanese calligraphy, touching upon bokuseki, or Zen calligraphy; kana, or "women's writing"; and the more decorative "baroque" age of calligraphy. A chapter is devoted to the calligrapher's tools. This beautiful book is highly recommended to all art collections in academic and public libraries.-Lucia S. Chen, NYPL Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.