Title: Shasei-Cho (Drawing Book), Circa 1860-1890 (Late Edo to Meiji Period). Hand Colored Manuscript Sketchbook with Dozens of Paintings and Sketches, including Courtesans and Noblewomen, and a Yurei. Possibly for Craft Projects
Condition: Very Good
A Late Edo to Early Meiji Period, 19th century Shasei-Cho, also known as a Drawing Book. The manuscript is full of numerous, charming drawings, paintings, and sketches, many lovingly rendered in color. The subject matter is varying, from historical figures to idyllic landscapes, and more. There are several particularly well drawn landscapes in this example, a few illustrations of courtesans and noblewomen, and a bonus illustration of a ghastly Yurei leaping out of a lantern.
Based on the patterns and dyes, as well as the designs, the sketchbook was likely used for craft projects and as engraving designs, which would explain the front cover being marked as “engraved work”.
One manuscript in octavo (22.5 × 16 cm), 48 pages
This manuscript is in very good shape, with rubbing and worming to the binding. There is minor worming throughout, and very scattered, minor, staining.