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Infinite Spaces: The Art and Wisdom of the Japanese Garden; Based on the Sakuteiki by Tachibana no Toshitsuna

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Based on classical Japanese writings, this Zen gardening book is full of insightful commentary and lush photographs.

Japanese gardens have long been admired for their capacity to improve on nature through impeccable design, detail, and properties that elevate them from mere gardens to sacred spaces. The Sakuteiki, literally "notes on garden design," by the eleventh-century courtier and poet Tachibana no Toshitsuna laid out the original principles that shaped the design of these gardens. A distillation of centuries of garden design, the Sakuteiki remains a vital influence for garden makers in Japan today.

Infinite Spaces pairs extracts from the Sakuteiki with inspiring images that beautifully illustrate the principles of this ancient work. Sadao Hibi's superb photographs capture some of Japan's best-known gardens--from austere compositions in stone and gravel to richly planted landscapes. The photographs express the extraordinary beauty and diversity of one of the world's most ancient and revered styles of gardening. Discover a treasure trove of practical advice and philosophical insight on building and maintaining pools, lakes, and streams; arranging stones for the most natural and harmonious effect; and designing water features and placing stones to welcome auspicious deities while excluding malevolent influences.

Japanese gardening topics
This timeless visual artistry of the gardens and the specific design techniques will inspire you to create magnificent garden sanctuaries in your own backyard.

128 pages, Hardcover

First published April 10, 2013

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About the author

Julie Moir Messervy

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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
Profile Image for Kara.
Author 27 books94 followers
September 27, 2015

Gorgeous photography of the many types of zen gardens along with history of the practice.
Profile Image for Am Y.
857 reviews37 followers
April 17, 2015
Compact coffee table book with many beautiful photos of Japanese gardens and concise tips given in quote format on how to arrange elements such as stones, waterfalls, etc. It was well laid out and presented, making for a highly pleasurable read.
Profile Image for bibliotekker Holman.
355 reviews
April 29, 2016
A concise little introduction to Japanese garden design concepts based on the oldest written work on gardening the Sakuteiki. Thought provoking for the design of any outdoor space.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews

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