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Kakuzō Okakura Quotes

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Famous Kakuzō Okakura Quotes

“The tea-masters held that real appreciation of art is only possible to those who make of it a living influence. Thus they sought to regulate their daily life by the high standard of refinement which obtained in the tea-room. In all circumstances serenity of mind should be maintained, and conversation should be conducted as never to mar the harmony of the surroundings. The cut and color of the dress, the poise of the body, and the manner of walking could all be made expressions of artistic personality. These were matters not to be lightly ignored, for until one has made himself beautiful he has no right to approach beauty. Thus the tea-master strove to be something more than the artist,—art itself.”

Art Philosophy Beauty Tea

Book:The Book of Tea

Source: The Book of Tea

“But when we consider how small after all the cup of human enjoyment is, how soon overflowed with tears, how easily drained to the dregs in our quenchless thirst for infinity, we shall not blame ourselves for making so much of the tea-cup.”

Tears Tea Enjoyment Infinity

Book:The Book of Tea

Source: The Book of Tea

“(Speaking of art): In leaving something unsaid the beholder is given a chance to complete the idea and thus a great masterpiece irresistably rivets your attention until you seem to become actually a part of it.”

Art Beautiful Quotes Beauty Tea Masterpiece Paintings Lif

Book:The Book of Tea

Source: The Book of Tea

“[Tea-masters] have given emphasis to our natural love of simplicity, and shown us the beauty of humility. In fact, through their teachings tea has entered the life of the people.”

Humility Simplicity Tea

Book:The Book of Tea

Source: The Book of Tea

“Tea began as medicine and grew into a beverage.”

Drink Medicine Tea Beverage

Book:The Book of Tea

Source: The Book of Tea

“Si l'on considère la petitesse dévolue à la coupe du bonheur humain, la promptitude avec laquelle elle déborde de larmes, la facilité avec laquelle nous la vidons jusqu'à la lie dans notre soif inapaisable d'infini, qui pourrait bien nous reprocher de faire si grand cas d'une simple tasse de thé ?”

Tea Fragility Of Human Life

Book:The Book of Tea

Source: The Book of Tea