Pictures of the Floating World: An Introduction to Japanese Prints by Sarah E. Thompson | published by Abbeville

Ukiyo-e prints, which are a big favorite here at Copacetic, first and fore,ost due to their innovative formal qualities, amazing hand-crafted beauty, and sensuous æsthetic appeal, but, importantly, also due to their providing so much to the development of manga – not to mention the development of post-impressionism, especially via Vincent Van Gogh –  and given the historical similarities in the respective developments of ukiyo-e and comics.

A great number of books have been published over the years on these prints and the artists who made them, but this one really stands out. It is printed in the traditional Japanese style known as fukuro-toji, with a sewn binding and a slipcase, the latter of which allows for the inclusion of a translucent envelope containing three 6" x 8", suitable-for-framing prints.  The book itself has a very strong tactile appeal.  The contents primarily consist of gorgeous full color reproductions of Ukiyo-e prints and related artworks, but also includes a substantial text on the history of the form along with plenty of sumptuous, full color reproductions.  A real pleasure to hold and peruse.  Take a look!

 

Posted by on 02 December 00:12 (almost 2 years ago)