Each bookstore will act as a concierge, recommending "the book you should read now" to FASHION HEADLINE readers. Every Tuesday, Visual Foreign Bookstore and Shimada Foreign Bookstore, both located in Minami-Aoyama, Tokyo (5-5-25 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo, T-PLACE, 1F A103), will be on hand. This time, we've selected special books perfect for the New Year.

■ "WA" by Rossella Menegazzo and Stefania Piotti

This book features 250 diverse Japanese product designs, from traditional pieces from the 6th century to the latest contemporary designs, categorized by material, including wood, metal, ceramics, paper, fabric, and new materials. It begins with a text introducing Japanese design by graphic designer Kenya Hara, and features works by numerous designers, including Tokujin Yoshioka, Shiro Kuramata, Naoto Fukasawa, Sori Yanagi, and Shigeru Ban.

Featured items include torii gates, kendama (Japanese traditional crafts), kokeshi dolls, tea ceremony utensils, chopsticks, brushes, fans, tables, lighting, paper art, braided cords, kimonos, masking tape, stools, and more. As you leaf through the pages and admire the diverse designs, both old and new, you'll discover the Japanese spirit of "wa" (harmony) and the beauty of sophisticated design, reaffirming the great qualities of this country. This collection of works will inspire you as a Japanese person.

The book's cover was designed by Hara Kenya, and is meticulously bound in Japanese binding with red thread on a white background.


[Book Information]
"WA"
Authors: Rossella Menegazzo, Stefania Piotti
Publisher: PHAIDON
Language: English
Softcover / 288 pages / 270 x 205 mm
Published: 2014
Price: 8,000 yen