Title: Jūnishi tō zei shin Hanashi Zen (New Story of the Zodiac Signs), Circa 1825-1880. An Extremely Rare Illustrated Manuscript Depicting Anthropomorphized Monsters and Beasts based on the Zodiac, A Tale Not Recorded in Kokusho
Condition: Very Good
A Late Edo to Early Meiji Period, 19th century manuscript entitled Jūnishi tō zei shin Hanashi Zen, or a New Story of the Zodiac Signs. As the title would entail, it is a tale of anthropomorphized monsters and beasts based on the creatures of the Zodiac calendar, milling about in different roles within Japanese society.
This manuscript appears to be a wholly unique and extraordinarily rare work, as no comparable example, printed or handwritten, seems to exist on Kokusho holdings. Though there is always the chance it can be found under a different wording.
There are 30 pages of black and white pen and ink illustrations throughout, with two-page spreads, each depicting the creatures of the Zodiac in different occupations and scenes. From Nezumi (rats) putting on a performance and in their celebratory kiminos, to Yagi (goats) at the red light district seeking to pay for the services of a geisha, Ushi (oxen) battled in the garb of samurai, and more, this manuscript is a truly unique and original tale, providing representations of what each Zodiac creature might be like had they walked among the people of Edo Period Japan in an anthropomorphic form.
One manuscript in 12mo (15.5 x 12 cm), 15 leaves
This manuscript is in very good shape, with heavy rubbing and wear to the covers. There is light, scattered staining, and the lower right corners and worn.