Art photo book featuring a yellow decorative cover with gray and blue patterns. - Title: Jōbon Kaishaei (Elegant Gathering of Images) - Originally, the word "上品 (jōbon)" (elegant) not only refers to mere objects but also signifies the distinction of official ranks or the hierarchy of types. In ancient times, it was used in the context of the imperial court, such as "御位一品 (goi ippon)" (First Rank) and "二品 (nihon)" (Second Rank) bestowed upon imperial princes. It appears in the "Book of Documents" as "問二九徳品例一 (Mon Nikyū Tokuhin Rei I)" and in Wang Xizhi's "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" with the famous line, "仰観二宇宙之大一俯察二品類之盛一 (Gyōkan ni uchū no dai, fukatsusatsu ni hinrui no sei)" (Looking up, I observe the vastness of the universe; looking down, I examine the flourishing of all things). The meaning is multifaceted. "上品 (jōbon)" (elegant), with the addition of "上 (jō)" (above), clearly distinguishes various ranks, establishes a hierarchy, and refers only to those at the top. Furthermore, gathering many things to determine their superiority or inferiority is called "品定め (shinasadame)" (evaluation) or "品評 (hinpyō)" (assessment). This book brings together works created with the utmost care and dedication by the leading figures in weaving, dyeing, embroidery, tie-dyeing, and kasuri (ikat), with the hope of creating a highly refined exhibition, and is presented under the name "上品會 (Jōbon Kai)" (Elegant Gathering). The history of "上品會 (Jōbon Kai)" began in 1936 (Showa 11) with the "染織上品會 (Senshoku Jōbon Kai)" (Dyeing and Weaving Elegant Gathering), held with the cooperation of three renowned dyeing and weaving families: Chiso (Yuzen), Yashiro Ni (Weaving), and Tatsumura (Obi). Subsequently, Taiyōkyo made a special exhibition in 1937 (Showa 12), but it was temporarily suspended in 1942 (Showa 17) due to the intensification of the war. When it resumed in 1953 (Showa 28), "Akiba, Kawashima, Chikirya, Daihiko, Chiwawa, Hayashi, and Yamamoto" joined, forming the "Ten Master Houses." In 1957 (Showa 32), Iwata joined, making it the "Twelve Master Houses." After undergoing various changes, "上品會 (Jōbon Kai)" evolved into the current group of renowned artists, and together with Takashimaya, they strive to reach the pinnacle of Japanese dyeing and weaving. Thank you for viewing. I also have many books related to art and fashion for sale. #barbeart #barbefashion Clicking the above will make it easier to find them. I also have many back issues of magazines such as Geijutsu Shincho and Bijutsu Techo. #barbe芸術新潮 (Geijutsu Shincho back issues) #barbe美術手帖 (Bijutsu Techo back issues) #barbebrutus (brutus back issues)