Title: Ikkyuuo Shou Bukkigun (Ikkyu-san's Buddhist Demon Army), 1834. With 19 Full Page Woodblock Illustrations of Warring Oni and Heavenly Bodhisattvas
Author: Ikkyu Sojun
Publisher: Kyoto, Sohachi Yaneya, Tazaemon Ogawa
Condition: Very Good
A Late Edo Period, mid 19th century edition of Monk Ikkyu’s tale of the Shou Bukkigun, or the Buddhist Demon Army.
A Buddhist monk and poet of the Muromachi Period and 15th century, Ikkyu was a rather eccentric figure, infusing Japanese art and literature with Zen attitudes and ideals, and having written a number of works, among this one being the “Kuangyun Collection and a Continuation", "The Buddhist Demon Army", the "Zijie Collection", and "Ikkyu's Dharma Words".
This work has been beautifully illustrated through, with 19 full page woodblock illustrations, among which are scenes in hell of sinners being tortured, Oni preparing and making for war, various Bodhisattvas in the heavenly realm and other areas, and more.
One volume in octavo (18 x 12.7 cm), 30 leaves
This volume is in very good shape, with some wear and old staining to the binding, with the upper cord loosened but holding. There is very little foxing or staining throughout.