The Book of Tea, written in 1903 by the Japanese scholar and art critic Okakura Kakuzō, is considered a foundational work on the history, philosophy, culture, and rituals of tea drinking in Japan. The text explores the profound influence of Taoism and Zen Buddhism on the cult of tea, which at its core represents the adoration of beauty and harmony amidst the dreary reality of everyday life. For the overall visual identity—including the cover and interior design—the concept draws from this philosophy of purity and the refined tranquility inherent in the tea ceremony itself.
The design concept is built around minimalism and a deliberate use of white space, directly reflecting Zen aesthetics and allowing the reader an uninterrupted immersion into the text. The green color of fresh tea leaves lends an organic quality to the book, while the solemn and authentic atmosphere of this "tea bible" is complemented by rich, historically accurate illustrative material.
The design concept is built around minimalism and a deliberate use of white space, directly reflecting Zen aesthetics and allowing the reader an uninterrupted immersion into the text. The green color of fresh tea leaves lends an organic quality to the book, while the solemn and authentic atmosphere of this "tea bible" is complemented by rich, historically accurate illustrative material.
