Why the Botanical Encyclopedia?

Why the Botanical Encyclopedia? (Japanese title: なぜ植物図鑑を？) is a significant and scarce second photobook by the renowned Japanese photographer Takuma Nakahira. Published in 1973 by Asahi Sonorama in Tokyo, this first edition hardcover volume features fine monochrome reproductions of Nakahira's grainly, atmospheric photographs of botanical subjects. The work is noted for its artistic approach to nature photography, capturing plants with a distinct aesthetic that distinguishes it from standard scientific illustrations. It remains a highly collectible item among enthusiasts of Japanese photography and botanical art.