Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Examines the innovations in design and technique that produced the robes and costumes during a 400 year period (the 16th through the 19th centuries) considered to be the golden age of Japanese costume. The superb photographs (156 in all, 110 in color) are accompanied by descriptions of the patterns and the way the costumes were made, the design elements and their origins, and the meaning and uses of motifs. 9 1/2 x12". Annotation(c) 2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Reviews provided by Syndetics

Library Journal Review

This history of Japanese costume is not as inclusive as its title suggests. It actually discusses and illustrates only three kinds of Japanese garments: kosode, the robes of the wealthy; shozoku, the costumes worn by actors in the No theater; and kesa, garments worn by Buddhist clerics. These garments are the finest and most elaborate of all Japanese garments, considered a form of art in their society and worn only by privileged groups. Each type is considered in a separate section, with defining features and variations explained in a straightforward, readable text. The types are then illustrated with beautiful examples dating from the 16th through the 19th centuries and now preserved as museum pieces. Although this is a specialized subject, an interested reader without much background in Japanese culture or textiles could understand and enjoy this volume.-- Kathryn W. Finkelstein, M.Ln., Cincinnati (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.