The Tale of Genji: A Japanese Classic Illuminated

"The Tale of Genji: A Japanese Classic Illustrated, " just issued by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in conjunction with an exhibition that runs through 16 June, is far from the West's first introduction to the substance and cultural heritage of the lengthy 11th-century book that many consider the world's first novel. However, this particular volume benefits from the museum's remarkable assets and expertise, and readers familiar with earlier MMA catalogues will not be surprised by its surpassing beauty.The MMA book probes the artistic impacts of "The Tale of Genji" ever since the novel was written late in the Heian Period (794-1185). These appear in arenas as diverse as calligraphy, scrolls and screens, architecture, Buddhist sculptures and sutras, as well as objects of everyday life such as robes, musical instruments, lacquerware., and even recent manga comics. Running nearly 375 pages, the book is divided into two main parts. The first and shorter portion is thematically organized into four essays that provide context for understanding the creation of the Genji tale and its evolving iconographies. The second portion, a catalogue of the exhibition, traces chronologically the long-lived influence of "The Tale of Genji." Happily, it opens with a discussion of Heian court culture, a prerequisite for understanding both the novel and how the society depicted therein still shapes Japan's aesthetic sensibilities and refined behavioral norms.

Essays are outstanding, Reproductions in full color are in context with the essays, and the chapters, It is a big, big exhibitioo, and this is a must for anyone interested in Japanese art, A treasure. And an exhibition this broad, culling from National Treasures, in Japan and collections around the world is not likely to be repeated soon. I also appreciate the shift now to matte covers, rather than glossy, and slick which can get dog eared more easily.

I read this stunning and beautifully written book before reading the novel - It gives a clear and beautiful sense for the customs, characters and times. Also, it is a handy reference as I read the Tale of Genji. Sorry I missed the actual MMA exhibit!

This is an incredible book. Truly beautiful showcase of the Genji scrolls and written context. Recommend!

Genji is a touchstone of Japanese culture. This book shows it and the associated material marvelously.

This product was outstanding! Love love love!

comprehensive supporting images and text to main exhibition data

Excellent reference.

Those of us who have fallen in love with The Tale of Genji are thrilled to find an entire book dedicated to honouring this classic of world literature. No detail is ignored : styles of calligraphy and painting, the central role that Genji plays in Japanese culture to this day, the beautiful objects (screens, scrolls, lacquer work etc) inspired by the episodes of the novel and all reproduced in full colour. The text has been carefully edited which is something of a rarity these days.