Directions of writing

Hello,

I am working on the influence of writing direction on the
organization of space (ex: scientific charts will have the
coordinates origin to the left in a left-to-right writing context).

I am looking for bibliography on the history of the directions of
writing, especially in Japan (statistics, contexts of usage of
particular LTR or TTB usage...).

For an example of writing direction and art - miniature painting and
numismatic - see: http://mywebpage.netscape.com/atanasiuvlad/regards/

Any information is welcome!

Vlad