"The MFA's holdings of Japanese art make up the finest and most comprehensive collection outside of Japan. This overview features many of the collection's best-known and much-loved works, including rare and famous paintings such as the eighth-century Buddhist painting Shaka, the Historical Buddha, Preaching on Vulture Peak and the thirteenth-century narrative handscroll Night Attack on the Sanjo Palace. Also included are magnificent examples of woodblock prints, breathtaking sculptures such as the statue of the bodhisattva Miroku by the twelfth-century master Kaikei, plus a representative selection of postcards, textiles, ceramics, lacquer wares, sword-fittings, and other decorative arts. Nor is the modern world neglected, for this volume includes twentieth-century masterworks by such artists as Sugimoto Hiroshi and Murakami Takashi. In all, more than 160 highlights from this staggering collection are illustrated and discussed, divided into the themes of art of the temple, the ruling classes, the town, and Japanese art in the outside world. Ranging from the seventh century to the present day, this engaging book introduces the reader to the variety and brilliance of Japanese arts."--Jacket.