The text traces aesthetics of Japanese architecture, art, and daily life, while inviting us to consider the delicate beauty found in objects and practices that age and evolve. His reflections on craftsmanship shine through, accentuating a deep appreciation of traditional approaches to making things. The objects and spaces he describes are not just functional; they are living things, vessels of life, that acquire character through use and the slow rhythm of the seasons. He paints an image of a quiet grace in embracing beauty that comes from wear – not as decay, but as a constant beautiful metamorphosis. And when this inevitably comes to an end you can restart the process through fine craftsmanship creating the new.

To Tanizaki, craftsmanship was not merely a technical skill, but a practice rooted in a respect for material and making. He openly mourns the decline of these practices in the face of modernity and western ideals - where speed & uniformity overshadow the meticulous care and mindfulness that characterised Japanese craftsmanship. He argues that time imbues our objects and spaces with a richness that can never be replicated by the fast-moving trends of industrialisation. It is not a superficial or nostalgic longing for the past, but an acknowledgment of the passage of time and the beauty that can hold.

Of all of his reflections, I am always drawn to his witty commentary on differences in attitudes toward design and function, given through the example of a toilet. He critiques the western approach noting that the very idea of considering toilets as places worthy of aesthetic thought, let alone beauty, is anathema in western sensibilities. In contrast, Tanizaki extols the simplicity and quiet beauty in traditional Japanese lavatory spaces - where even this utilitarian space reflects deeper cultural appreciation. I suppose I find it a humorous, yet pointed critique of how we often separate function from beauty.

So, to wrap up - and educate my former unappreciative architectural student self - In Praise of Shadows invites us to slow down, to appreciate the quiet beauty of aging on the materials that form our surroundings, to honour the craftsmanship that makes this beauty possible. The work is a subtle, yet profound reminder of the beauty in imperfection, and that even the most mundane objects - like a toilet - can embody a sense of grace, through careful design and embrace of the passage of time.

#books #bookreview #theheritageexplorer #craftsmanship #craftmatters #craftsmanshipmatters #booksuggestions #conservationphilosophy #philosophyofcraftsmanship #weeklyreads #weeklyread

#books #bookreview #theheritageexplorer #craftsmanship #craftmatters #craftsmanshipmatters #booksuggestions #conservationphilosophy #philosophyofcraftsmanship #weeklyreads #weeklyread

My latest #weeklyreads review - Jukka Jokilehto’s 'A History of Architectural Conservation' offers a thorough exploration of the evolution of modern conservation practices. He ties the origins of the conservation movement to the Italian Renaissance, acknowledging its pivotal role in shaping both the modern [western] world and the foundations of conservation - a notion I find particularly intriguing given my propensity to lambast the renaissance for the rise of the ‘architect’ over the craftsperson. The book provides a sweeping overview of the field, with particular emphasis on how conservation philosophy has evolved from the likes of aesthetic preservation to a more integrated approach, balancing a range of values, such as authenticity, with the practical demands of contemporary society.

For my purposes, Jokilehto’s treatment of craftsmanship stands out. While it can be viewed that he underscores its importance in conservation, his exploration of craftsmanship is passive at best. Another drawback of the work includes its broad historical scope which, while ambitious, can sometimes lead to a lack of depth in certain areas. But we can be most critical of its Western focus - despite the latest revision looking to address this - which limits its applicability in non-Western contexts, and is difficult in a world looking to redress the imbalance of colonialism and engage with notions like climate justice.

Nevertheless, the book remains a crucial text for anyone involved in the field, whether newcomers or seasoned professionals. It highlights key themes such as the importance of specialised training, the need for collaboration, and the value of preserving traditional techniques - reinforcing how contemporary best practices have evolved from centuries of conservation efforts.

Ultimately, Jokilehto’s work offers us valuable insights into the ongoing metamorphosis of conservation philosophy. Although it doesn’t directly address the philosophy of craftsmanship, it emphasises the essential role craftsmanship plays - both historically and in modern conservation – presenting workmanship not just as a technical skill but as a means of maintaining authenticity and historical integrity. The work emphasises the need for a deep understanding of materials, techniques, and the original intent behind our built environment.

The book’s importance is undeniable - Jokilehto advocates for a balanced approach that respects both historical integrity and contemporary needs – something anyone should bring to their practice, whether in the conservation field or not.

#books #bookreview #theheritageexplorer #craftsmanship #craftmatters #craftsmanshipmatters #booksuggestions #conservationphilosophy #philosophyofcraftsmanship #weeklyreads #weeklyread

Following on from my review of ‘The Craftsman’, it seemed only logical for my next weekly read to be a source that Richard Sennett himself used for his work: Karl Marx’s ‘Grundrisse.’ This foundational text delves into the development of Marx's economic theories, but what particularly interests me are his assessments regarding craftsmanship and communities.

In the book, which I admit is a dense tome and can be difficult to read at times, Marx emphasises that craftsmanship embodies skilled labour, fostering creativity and individual expression. This stands in stark contrast to the alienation inherent in mass production. He critiques industrial capitalism for devaluing craftsmanship, reducing both workers and their output to mere commodities.

While ‘Grundrisse’ offers valuable insights into craftsmanship and labour, contemporary readers face several challenges. The text's complex language can be daunting, making it less accessible. Additionally, some of the concepts Marx explores, such as alienation and the labour-capital relationship, are often ambiguous and can lead to varied interpretations. It’s also important to recognise that Marx’s analysis is deeply rooted in the 19th-century industrial context, which may not fully apply to modern labour practices or our views on technological advancements. Furthermore, his intense focus on the negatives of capitalism often leads him to overlook potential benefits and entirely ignore non-Western perspectives.

Despite these challenges, ‘Grundrisse’ has significantly influenced thinkers like Richard Sennett, Herbert Marcuse, and David Harvey. These scholars examine the complexities of social relations in various contexts, especially regarding notions of craftsmanship and labour.

Ultimately, I find that the most important aspects of Marx’s work lie in his suggestion that the way individuals engage with craftsmanship—as a form of labour—is crucial for fostering authentic communities. He presents a vision where future relationships with labour and craft can promote collaboration and creativity, leading to a more cohesive and supportive society.

#books #bookreview #theheritageexplorer #craftsmanship #craftmatters #craftsmanshipmatters #booksuggestions #conservationphilosophy #philosophyofcraftsmanship #weeklyreads #weeklyread