Japanese Woodworking

US: Hartley & Marks Publishers, 1987. Paperback. Very Good. A copy that has been read, but is in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting.The spine remains undamaged. This book contains step-by-step instructions for the much-admired craft of traditional Japanese woodworking. Written as a text for Japanese craftsmen and carpenters, it includes every practical detail and explains every proce dure. Traditional Japanese woodworking emphasizes the importance of the carpenter 's tools - understanding their functions and giving them the best possible care. In fact, in ancient times in Japan, it was said that a worker 's skil l could best be judged by observing his care of edged tools. This guide, th erefore, devotes many pages to the use and care of tools. No step is from e xplanations of the various types of tools to sharpening procedures (using t he renowned Japanese sharpening stones), and including the best methods for their protection and storage. Building techniques are also carefully explained, with drawings and instruc tions for measuring, marking, cutting and carving wood. The latter part of the book explains methods for framing traditional wooden structures. Hideo Sato's exposition of the subject conveys a refreshing spirit of rever ence for the work and for the tools - an atitude which is considered essent ial for the traditional Japanese craftsman. The book was expertly translated by the Japanese architect Koichi Paul Nii.