396 pages, 12.5" x 9.5", 3kg/7lbs, hardcover, spot varnishing, sewn binding, offset printed. ISBN 978-1-7387609-0-9
Edited and authored by Roger Yorke—with Foreword by Kendall H Brown
Travel back in time to learn about the artistry on the world’s most iconic traditional garment – the kimono. During much of the period 1905-1960, the lion’s share of Japan’s creative talent was devoted to kimono artwork. This publication details the skill, tradition, symbolism, and art the kimono represents through over 600 meticulously curated images.
Over 100 full-page color images depict supreme examples of the kimono, representing the best from the world’s private and museum collections. These kimonos were created during arguably its greatest artistic peak, in the period, 1905 through 1960, when great Japanese aesthetic traditions were in dynamic conversation with avant-garde art from the West.
“Art Kimono: Aesthetic Revelations of Japan 1905-1960” not only boasts the most thorough representation of kimono art to date, but in addition, about two hundred of early to mid-20th century vintage ethnographic images of geisha, actresses, models, and citizens, all wearing artistic examples of the iconic garment, plus over 100 original illustrations dating back to the early 1900s.
It can be said that art kimono was the most succinct and radiant expression of Japanese aspirations and aesthetics at that time in their history. This publication illuminates that important yet not-well-known aspect of early 20th century Japanese arts.
limited edition of 500 copies. Not being sold at online or brick-and-mortar bookstores.
"The book is wonderful. It opened my eyes to an unexpectedly beautiful aesthetic."