Katsura: Tradition and Creation in Japanese Architecture

Sumptuously produced treatment of the aesthetic and spiritual qualities of traditional Japanese architecture that resonated with and influenced Western modernism—think the simplicity and abstract beauty of tatami geometry combined with a holistic philosophy of indoor/outdoor living. The book itself is a cynosure of academic and graphic quality, with text by Walter Gropius and Kenzo Tange, photographs by Yasuhiro Ishimoto, and book design by Herbert Bayer. Truly a delight for the mind and senses, and a touchstone for anyone interested in the character of the east-west dialogue as it pertains to modernist design and architecture. Lacking the dust jacket, but that only emphasizes the apropos minimalism of the Bayer-designed boards. First English edition (stated), published in 1960 by Yale University Press. Toning to spine and minor chipping to lower spine edge, otherwise quite clean and presentable.