Okinawan, Art, Textiles, Ceramics, Lacquerware, Pottery, Architecture 

"In this remarkable study of the craftsmen of the Ryukyu Islands, a sympathetic Japanese photographer captures the proud spirit of these men and women, their absolute devotion to their work, and the striking beauty of their creations. There is also a concise but deeply felt introduction to Okinawan culture and history which demonstrates not only the tragedy of Okinawa's past but also its rare achievement in the field of folkcrafts. In fact, the craftsmen of Okinawa have preserved some of the finest traditions of true folk art that have all but disappeared from modern Japan. Unfortunately few young Okinawans are choosing to follow the old ways, so the present book is especially important in that it gives the Western reader a glimpse of the richly creative world of Okinawan folkcrafts before it fades"--From Front Book Flap.

Contents:
Notes on Okinawan pronunciation -- Living crafts of Okinawa: a historical introduction -- Carpentry and stonemasonry, with plates 1-12 -- Textile crafts on Okinawa island, with plates 13-50 -- Textile crafts on the outer islands, with plates 51-72 -- Pottery and ceramic roof tiles, with plates 73-90 -- Lacquerware, with plates 91-105 -- Musical instruments, with plates 106-12 -- Miscellaneous crafts, with plates 113-55 -- Shipbuilding, with plates 156-64 -- Photographer's Note -- List of captions -- Glossary of Okinawan terms.