The authors of this massive work take a unique approach to their huge subje ct. Rather than looking at Japanese art chronologically, they take individu al media (ceramics, architecture) or ideas (literature into art, nature) an d discuss Japanese artists' use and treatment of each. This nontraditional approach is quite thought-provoking and enables the reader better to unders tand Japanese art as a whole. The text could be more coordinated with the p lates, but their sheer numbers (176 magnificent color, 361 clear black-and- white) provide a wealth of study material. There are also 222 views, plans, maps, and diagrams of 79 principal archaeological sites with extensive dis cussion of each. Other features are a chronology, biographical section, and an extensive bibliography. Altogether a major work and well worth acquisit ion despite the price. Patricia R. Hausman, Williamsburg Regional Lib., Va. - Library Journal - Library Journal.