...Explores the beauty, essence, and enduring impact of Japanese design... Printed on craft paper and bound in the traditional Japanese style with a stitched spine and folded pages, the book itself is an art masterpiece. -Chopsticks Magazine For those unfamiliar with the Japanese term 'wa', it can be loosely translated to mean 'harmony.' The concept can be seen in many ways in Japanese culture; in this book it's defined through 250 objects - from a 16th century bamboo case to a 1950s Isamu Noguchi table to a modern-day silk robe by Kenzo. What you can be sure of: everything chosen for the book is beautifully designed - right down to the utilitarian Kikkoman soy sauce bottle. -The New York Post I used to be a graphic designer, so I think books as objects, like Phaidon's WA: The Essence of Japanese Design, make exceptional gifts. Intricately bound, it showcases a collection of Japanese products, from food to ceramics. -DuJour (Denmark) Menegazzo and Piotti distill centuries of the wabi-wabi way of life in this elegantly curated photograph album of everyday items... While minimalism might not be everyone's cup of green tea, those with the desire to pare down will surely find inspiration. -Publishers Weekly Exquisite... As an object itself, as well as a fantastic book that will further the knowledge and understanding of the sublime beauty of Japanese design. -Wendy Goodman, New York magazine ...A beautiful compendium... What a shogun started in the 15th century still has currency today. -The New York Times An intellectually honest and provocative introduction to the culture of Japanese design practices. -Identity magazine