Japanese Gardens, 1920s Western View of Japanese Landscape Architecture, First American Edition

Basil Taylour

First Edition

Taylour, Mrs. Basil. Japanese Gardens. New York: Dodd, Mead, and Company, 1929. First American edition. A beautifully illustrated study of traditional Japanese gardens, featuring 24 exquisite color plates by British artist Walter Tyndale. Published in the early 20th century, this volume reflects the Western fascination with Japanese aesthetics following the Meiji Restoration (1868–1912), a period in which Japan increasingly opened to foreign influences while maintaining and refining its artistic traditions. Taylour’s work explores the philosophy and design principles of Japanese gardens, emphasizing their meticulous balance of natural elements, asymmetry, and symbolism. She describes how gardens function as an extension of Japanese cultural and spiritual life, incorporating features such as stone lanterns, koi ponds, and meticulously pruned pines. Tyndale’s watercolors capture the seasonal beauty of landscapes in Kyoto and Tokyo, depicting temple gardens, classical stroll gardens, and scenes of vibrant autumn foliage. The book also highlights the influence of Zen Buddhism and Shinto traditions in shaping these landscapes, reinforcing the idea that gardens were spaces for contemplation and harmony with nature. Scarce in its original dust jacket, this copy retains its elegant gilt-stamped binding and delicate tipped-in color plates. The front of the dust jacket is present but the spine and rear have been separated. Moderate foxing to pages. Binding is intact, as are all 24 plates. In good condition overall. A significant work for collectors of Japanese art, garden history, and early Western interpretations of Japanese landscape architecture.

Item #21554

Price: $225.00