How to Wrap Five Eggs, Japanese Design in Traditional Packaging

Traditional Japanese packaging is an art form that applies sophisticated design and natural aesthetics to simple objects. In this elegant presentation of the baskets, boxes, wrappers, and containers that were used in ordinary, day-to-day life, we are offered a stunning example of a time before mass production. Largely constructed of bamboo, rice straw, hemp twine, paper, and leaves, all of the objects shown here are made from natural materials. Through 221 black-and-white photographs of authentic examples of traditional Japanese packaging—with commentary on the origins, materials, and use of each piece—the items here offer a look into a lost art, while also reminding us of the connection to nature and the human imprint of handwork that was once so alive and vibrant in our everyday lives.

First Edition for the United States published by Harper and Row in 1967, after the original Japanese edition of 1965.  Written by Hide Yuki Oka, foreword by George Nelson, photography by Michikazu Sakai.  Traditional elegant designs for packaging ordinary objects in Japan reflect their time and culture.  4to, 203 pages, full page illustrations in exquisite black and white, dust jacket with protective cover, glossy white with blind embossing on front hardcover, bump to right lower edge, interior fine.  VG/VG.