The Japanese art of bonsai has a rather unique type of beauty. While the actual aesthetic of the trees themselves is obviously charming, bonsai trees seem to communicate a history to the viewer, some unspoken knowledge of the maker and the tree that can somehow be observed in the attention to detail required for the artist. Washington D.C. based photographer Stephen Voss has put together a photography series and book that do a fantastic job of reflecting the silent beauty of bonsai.

Blue Atlas Cedar, in training since 1948

Voss tells Bored Panda that he started photographing the trees as a means of relaxation, and in seeing their beauty wanted to share the feeling of being close to the trees, saying "I knew implicitly that there was something to be learned from them, from their endurance and quiet dignity." Here are some gorgeous samples of his work, and if you find them as enchanting as we do, be sure to check out his book for order, and Instagram account.

Japanese White Pine, in training since 1625

Cedar Elm, in training since 1981

Rhododendron ‘Gunki’, in training since 1982

Japanese Red Pine bonsai, in training since 1905

Japanese Black Pine, training date unknown

Chinese Elm, in training since 1946

California juniper, in training since 1985

Bald Cypress bonsai, in training since 1987

California Juniper bonsai, in training since 1985

Bald Cypress bonsai, in training since 1987

Crapemyrtle, in training since 2010

Sargent Juniper, in training since 1905

Sargent’s juniper bonsai, training date unknown

Drummond Red Maple, in training since 1974.

Chinese Elm, training date unknown

California Juniper bonsai, in training since 1985

Trident Maple, in training since 1985