Arts of Japan: The Art of Shinto, by Haruki Kageyama

"Shinto painting and sculpture, tinged by Buddhist stylistics and theological traits, is primarily composed of works illustrating the correspondences between the deities of the two. These works, in particular those of the peak period of amalgamation from the late twelfth centuries, are presented here in their religious setting - at, for example, the great shrine complexes of Kasuga and Hachiman. It is a focus the author uses with skill to give the reader a lucid introduction to a little-known facet of Japanese art, as well as insight into the phenomenon of cultural adaptation and absorption so characteristic of Japan throughout its history."