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The Book of Tea · Theme
Art Appreciation and Individuality
How The Book of Tea develops Art Appreciation and Individuality.
True art appreciation requires personal sympathy and humility before the masterpiece, rejecting mere fashion or cost; the tea-masters valued objects that spoke to them individually rather than catering to popular taste.
Where it surfaces
- The Schools of Tea
Each preparation of tea has its individuality, and the tearoom is described as an oasis for meeting at the common spring of art-appreciation.
- V: Art Appreciation
The chapter emphasizes that true art appreciation is deeply personal and individual, as illustrated by the contrast between Rikiu's unique taste and Kobori-Enshiu's more conventional collection.