This short reference to the history of English gardening has seemed necessary in order to form some comparison with the style of composition practised in Japan, the manner of treatment followed in the two countries each claiming to be considered a Natural Style. While to a great extent the same ï¾µsthetic principles control both methods, wide differences exist in many points. And here it may be advisable to disclaim any intention of depreciating the numerous attractions of European gardens, or the unsurpassed progress which horticultural art has attained in Western countries. It is the artistic aspect of Japanese gardens, as shown in the methods of design employed, which will be mainly considered in the present treatise.
