125 Most Asked Questions About Cats (And the Answers)

Customer Reviews:

Answers many common questions about your cat.......2002-04-30

Why do people fear black cats? How often should a cat be bathed? Do cats dream? Why do cats purr? How much privacy do cats need? Why do cats have whiskers?

If you like cats, this book answers all kinds of questions. We just adopted a stray, and although I had cats as a child, I found out that I really didn't know much about cat care or cat behavior. I found this book very interesting. But it wasn't really informative. Most questions are answered in a page or less. I recommend it as a quick read, but unless you really love cats or love reading about them, I would recommend you borrow it or check it out from the library like I did. It's not a book I plan to buy.

stuff.......1996-07-15

good boo

Book Description

China can boast a history of art lasting 5,000 years and embracing a huge diversity of images and objects - jade tablets, painted silk handscrolls and fans, ink and lacquer painting, porcelain-ware, sculptures, and calligraphy. They range in scale from the vast `terracotta army' with its 7,000 or so life-size figures, to the exquisitely delicate writing of fourth-century masters such as Wang Xizhin and his teacher, `Lady Wei'. But this rich tradition has not, until now, been fully appreciated in the West where scholars have focused their attention on sculpture, downplaying art more highly prized by the Chinese themselves such as calligraphy. Art in China marks a breakthrough in the study of the subject. Drawing on recent innovative scholarship and on newly-accessible studies in China itself Craig Clunas surveys the full spectrum of the visual arts in China. He ranges from the Neolithic period to the art scene of the 1980s and 1990s, examining art in a variety of contexts as it has been designed for tombs, commissioned by rulers, displayed in temples, created for the men and women of the educated ilite, and bought and sold in the marketplace. Many of the objects illustrated in this book have previously been known only to a few specialists, and will be totally new to a general audience.

Customer Reviews:

Art in China (Oxford History of Art Series).......2005-09-24

Beautifully illustrated, delightful and extremely informative. This book is a marvelous supplement to the typical art history text books.

Good introduction to the arts of China.......2005-03-08

I like the author's approach to writing an introduction to the arts of China. Instead of trying to touch at least all of the major artists/works from all of the major periods (which in the case of China would mean touching very many things in a very cursory way), the author focuses on the context for which works were produced. Some of them were meant to be "art" from the start, some were not. This offers ample opportunities to examine how some works influenced other later in history. Overall, I think the ideas presented are some of the most gripping I have found in Chinese art history books. The book includes recent discoveries and scholarship and uses Pinyin romanization (two great features - not all recently-published books do).

Currently the best short introduction to art in China.......2002-01-20

While not the easiest to read, Clunas's book is currently the best short modest-sized introduction to art in China. The title "Art in China" (not "Chinese Art") is intentional, for Clunas is one of the rare Occidental authors on this subject who transcend the limitations of their background and succeed in communicating some of the subtlety and complexity of the subject, so remote from Western tastes, but no less beautiful and profound.

For example, he points out that while Western art has concentrated on painting, calligraphy is the most esteemed art form in China. Furthermore, from its earliest beginnings, Chinese aesthetics has placed little emphasis on illusionism and perspective, even regarding these as juvenile and distracting from artistic self-expression. (In this respect, the Chinese anticipated "modern art theory" by centuries.) The very term "Chinese Art", he maintains, is a Western invention, since the art work in China was, until recently, never divorced from its political, religious or decorative functions. (That is to say, it was not "museum art" isolated from its context and consciously regarded as art.) Because of these characteristics, art in China has been little appreciated in the West.

Clunas's probing book should be read slowly-- and re-read. The illuminating text gives a relatively sophisticated and sympathetic account of art in China, unlike many books, which are simply naive, provincial and as full of trivial dates and abstractions as they are lacking in insight. The representative works, drawn from all periods of Chinese history--including modern times--are superb and well chosen, and the pictures are excellent, considering the book's modest size. I especially enjoy the full-page color reproduction of Guo Xi's masterpiece "Early Spring" which equals, if not surpasses, the finest landscape paintings of the Dutch golden age (of course, not in illusionist technique, but in sheer expressive and evocative power as it unveils a mysterious fantastic landscape reflecting an interior, as much as an exterior, reality).

My only complaint is that there is only one book on "Art in China" in the Oxford History of Art series, while there are at least 30 on Western art in the same series. One book covers Western art for a 25-year span (1920-45), but 5,000 years of high art in China--in painting, jade, ceramics, lacquer, porcelain, calligraphy and sculpture--gets only a single volume! Talk about provincialism! Certainly, this is no fault of Dr. Clunas, whose work seems all the more commendable in the midst of the naive insularity and ethnocentrism with which it has unfortunately been grouped.

BRILLIANT!!.......2002-01-15

In researching information regarding Sung Dynasty scrolls and artists, I found this book to be a most generous indeed. The author provides clear, precise information without the clutter of person guesses. He provides a wonderful assortment of pictures and resources. Clear, clean photographs of artifacts providing the reader with primary documentation .This is a MUST for anyone studying the Arts and Artists of early China. Thank you Craig Clunas!

challenging book.......2000-05-15

This is a challenging work.

He realizes 5 standpoints. He writes "What is historically called art in China, by whom and when?". Really, I feel it rather reflect unconscious attitude of 20th century collectors and scholars.

Art in the Tomb /Art at Court/Art in the Temple/Art in the life of the Elite /Art in the Market-Place

Following recent searching environment of artifacts; lifetime of painters, art-market, patrons, etc., as "Painter's Practice" by J.cahill, Mr. Clunas searched relations of arts-makers and the society. This approach is interesting and very suggestive. It may be the first try among such cheap and popular books about "Arts in China". For such character, I feel it should not be an elementary textbook.

Calligraphy was more focused than M. Sullivan's book"The Arts of China" in the chapter "Art in the life of the Elite". Short columns explain words and technical terms vividly. It is worth to buy it only for them. Bibliographical essays(231-237 p.) are very useful. Plates and figures are all fine. There is few inadequate item. Fig 83 and 87 shows as we appreciate in museums, i.e. shows its handscroll format. I think the author make effort to show surrounding textile of paintings and the format in some figs.

As an avocat d'diable, I notice some. The gong of Fig. 49 is not 8th century. Dragons and a beast should be genuine 8th century items. The gong is regarded 12-13th century Japanese artifact. The item of Fig. 82 may not be a representative work by Tang-Yin.

Both C. Clunas and Michael Sullivan edited catalogues of Sir Alain Barlow Collection(now in Sussex College). (ref. The Barlow Collection of Chinese Ceramics, Bronzes and Jades: an Introduction, The University of Sussex, 1997/Nov.) Sullivan did in 1963 and 1974. Clunas did in 1997. They might have share common intellectual environment according Oriental Ceramic Society, England.

Average customer rating:

Imari Satsuma book review

Outstanding Japanese Ceramics Book.

Large number of high quality color photographs

Imari, Satsuma and Other Japanese Export Ceramics
Nancy N. Schiffer
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Asian | Regional | History & Criticism | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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Japanese Porcelain 1800-1950 (Schiffer Book for Collectors)

Classic Japanese Porcelain: Imari and Kakiemon

Japanese Export Ceramics: 1860-1920

Collecting Japanese Antiques

Chinese Export Porcelain, Standard Patterns and Forms, 1780-1880: Standard Patterns and Forms

ASIN: 0764309900

Book Description

The popularity of Japanese ceramics in the West caused a vast and delightful variety of wares to be made in the late nineteenth century for export. Colorful Imari porcelain in deep blue, orange-red, and gold, Fukagawa porcelain in imaginative designs, as well as the softly colored Satsuma earthenwares, are the best known of the old Japanese exports, shown here in hundreds of variations created by skilled decorators. This new edition has an updated values reference and additional items shown in each chapter, especially early Imari wares from the period c. 1700. Also presented are the exotic Sumida and Banko wares, relative newcomers to the field whose popularity has grown steadily over the last ten years. Makers' and decorators' marks, unusual shapes, design variations, and hard-to-find examples are all shown in 600 color photographs with identifying captions and concise text.

Customer Reviews:

Imari Satsuma book review.......2007-06-12

The pictures are wonderful and plentiful as well as history of the styles. What's painfully lacking are examples and explanations of marks. Two and a half pages representing 27 marks with minimum information on any of them. I felt like it was a pretty book to look through, but a poor reference for those looking for information on how to buy Imari or Satsuma. I found no information at all about reproductions or modern pieces that have flooded the market and make it difficult for less than well informed buyers to get genuine pieces of antique Imari or Satsuma.

Outstanding Japanese Ceramics Book........1998-08-24

Outstanding book for amateur and serious collectors to enjoy - pieces are identified with text and superb coloured photos.

Large number of high quality color photographs.......1998-03-11

Of great interest to dealers and collectors of Japanese export ceramics, this book contains full color photographs of a large number of fine specimans of Imari, Satsuma, Banko and Sumida. Significant number of pieces from the Arts and Crafts period. Sections on markings, bibliography and valuations. I think the valuations are on the low side of current retail prices.

Average customer rating:

Critic of Chinese Blue and White Porcelain

Chinese Blue and White Porcelain
Duncan MacIntosh
Manufacturer: Antique Collectors' Club
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

Ceramics | Other Media | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

China | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books

General | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Glass & Glassware | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Porcelain & China | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1851492100

Customer Reviews:

Critic of Chinese Blue and White Porcelain.......2001-12-15

I purchased this book to get a better understanding of Chinese Blue and White Porcelain. It totally fulfilled this requirement.

This book is very helpful for a beginning or mature collector. It is simple to understand and easy to read. There are many pictures and very detailed pictures of markings on the bottom of your objects.

Also, if you find a topic not addressed in the book you can email Duncan and he will assist you in resolving your issue.

Book Description

This is a catalogue of an exhibition being held at the National Museum of Scotland.

Inro and Other Miniature Forms of Japanese Lacquer Art

Average customer rating:

Inro and Other Miniature Forms of Japanese Lacquer Art
Melvin H. Jahss , and Betty Jahss
Manufacturer: Tuttle Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Decorative Arts | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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Pottery & Ceramics | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0804802637

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Chinese Pottery and Porcelain
R. Hobson
Manufacturer: Dover Pubns
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Sculpture | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0486232530

Pottery and Porcelain Marks: European, Oriental and U.S.A. in Chronological Order

Average customer rating:

Needs better way to display marks

Pottery and Porcelain Marks: European, Oriental and U.S.A. in Chronological Order
E. G. Perrott
Manufacturer: Gemini Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Glass & Glassware | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Porcelain & China | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

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Ceramics | Other Media | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0953063704

Customer Reviews:

Needs better way to display marks.......2007-06-05

Contains marks based on their period, somewhat hard to follow unless you know a lot about when your piece was made. I found Marks4Antiques easier to use. However, the Index is well organized, which helps find most marks by description.

Inside Japanese Ceramics: Primer Of Materials, Techniques, And Traditions

Average customer rating:

An essential guide for the potter or the collector.

Inside Japanese Ceramics: Primer Of Materials, Techniques, And Traditions
Richard L. Wilson
Manufacturer: Weatherhill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Instructional & How-To | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

Pottery & Ceramics | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0834804425
Release Date: 1999-10-01

Book Description

This practical and supremely useful manual is the first comprehensive, hands-on introduction to Japanese ceramics. The Japanese ceramics tradition is without compare in its technical and stylistic diversity, its expressive content, and the level of appreciation it enjoys, both in Japan and around the world. Inside Japanese Ceramics focuses on tools, materials, and procedures, and how all of these have influenced the way traditional Japanese ceramics look and feel. A true primer, it concentrates on the basics: setting up a workshop, pot-forming techniques, decoration, glazes, and kilns and firing. It introduces the major methods and styles that are taught in most Japanese workshops, including several representative and well-known wares: Bizen, Mino, Karatsu, Hagi, and Kyoto. While presenting the time-tested techniques of the tradition, author Richard L. Wilson also accommodates modern technologies and materials as appropriate. Wilson has gathered a wealth of information on two fronts—as a researcher of Japanese pottery and art history, and as a potter who has studied and worked for years with master Japanese potters. In his introduction, he provides a short history of Japanese ceramics, and in closing he looks beyond traditional methods toward ways in which Western potters can make Japanese methods their own. Richly illustrated with 24 color plates, over 100 black-and-white photographs, and over 70 instructive line-drawings, Inside Japanese Ceramics is indispensable for potters as well as connoisseurs and collectors of Japanese ceramics. Above all, it is an invitation to participate—to study, make, touch, and use the exquisite products of the Japanese ceramic tradition.

Customer Reviews:

An essential guide for the potter or the collector........1999-04-07

This volume presents not only the "how-to" of Japanese ceramics, but broader considerations of their significance within the context of world ceramics. Richard Wilson has not only trained extensively with Japanese potters, but is also thoroughly familiar with the many historical ceramic types which form the tradition which continues today. Virtually no art potters today remain unaffected by the tremendous impact of Japanese ceramics, and Wilson's book provides the contemporary ceramist with a reference that is at once useful and inspiring. The text is clear and straightforward in the explanatory sections while at the same time conveying to the reader the fascinating historical and cultural context on which the many techniques are based. The color illustrations are first class, and the technical photographs, illustrations and diagrams are clear, easy to read and appropriately placed. As in his earlier volume, The Art of Ogata Kenzan, Wilson has taken great pains to ensure that his information is both accurate and as complete as possible. Eschewing past tendencies of Western ceramists to mainly focus either on the externals of Japanese pots or on a touchy-feely, pseudo-philosophical/religous approach, Wilson sees the essence of Japanese ceramics as intrinsically linked to production process and functionality. As he summarizes, "(The Japanese ceramics legacy) suggests... renouncing artistic individualism... and rededicating oneself to personal discipline and harmony with materials, processes, and the user community. It implies thinking about the pots as part of an ongoing process, a relaxed conversation with the world, rather than as a kind of personal decree." Through this book, Richard Wilson has provided a great volume of reference not only for those who "do" ceramics, but for those who love ceramics as well.

Average customer rating:

Great Book to own
Pottery as well as textiles -- beautiful and harmonious

Blue and White Japan
Amy Sylvester Katoh
Manufacturer: Tuttle Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0804833052

Amazon.com

Indigo and white. What could be more harmonious in your home? The photos in this book prove it. This is an excellent indigo primer that shows examples of dyed textiles such as tsutsugaki, shibori, sashiko and katazome as well as kasuri weaving and sakiori, a way of recycling old textiles by tearing them in strips and weaving them into floor coverings and quilts.

Book Description

From Finland to Guatemala blue and white is a classic color combination. But nowhere is this design element more a part of the interior landscape and culture than in Japan, where blue and white appear together in fine porcelains and on tiles, in textiles, kitchenware, futon coverings and kimonos. In this delightful, popular book, available in hardcover since 1996, Amy Sylvester Katoh and photographer Yutaka Satoh blend photograph and essay to explore the mix of functionality and beauty that is at the heart of Japanese style. They offer a rich array of great design ideas-from soba cups to sinks-in blue and white. Along the way, you'll meet Japanese indigo textile craftsmen and learn about such indigo techniques as katzome, stencil dyeing, and shibori, a delicate, sophisticated form of tie-dyeing in indigo. From hats to vases, floor cushions to tea settings, Blue and White Japan is a fascinating, inspiring look at this classic design.

Customer Reviews:

Great Book to own.......2007-03-26

I live in Japan and purchased this book to see how people inter mix all the different blue and white dishes, materials and clothing. Great book to have for decorating your home. Can not wait to get to a few more Shrine Sales to pick up some more Blue and Whites.

Pottery as well as textiles -- beautiful and harmonious.......1997-02-08

This book is wonderfully photographed and written, focusing on the history of blue-and-white textiles and pottery of Japan. Just turning the pages gives a Zenlike feeling of rightness. Table settings, linens and furnishings don't have to match to give you a feeling of eating and living in calm and harmony

Chinese Snuff Bottles: From the Baur Collection

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Chinese Snuff Bottles: From the Baur Collection
Verene Nicollier-de Weck
Manufacturer: 5 Continents Editions
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Museums & Collections | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 887439361X

Book Description

Illustrates 170 exquisite snuff bottles, through color and b/w photographs, from the Albert Bauer collection.

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