"In Praise of Shadows" is an essay by the Japanese author Jun'ichirō Tanizaki, published in 1933. The work explores the aesthetic and cultural significance of light and shadow in Japanese architecture, art, and daily life. Tanizaki contrasts traditional Japanese aesthetics, which embrace subtlety and darkness, with Western preferences for brightness and clarity. The essay reflects on how shadows enhance the beauty of objects, such as ceramics and wooden structures, by creating depth and mystery. Tanizaki argues that the interplay of light and shadow contributes to a richer sensory experience, emphasizing the importance of these elements in appreciating Japanese culture.