The Local Toy of Interest by Gohachi. Translated by Jutaro Ikeda
[Japan] Fascinating, presumably unpublished, hand-typed manuscript in English containing a comprehensive list of traditional Japanese toys along with their origins. In 1909, Yamanouchi Kinzaburo (1886-1966) opened a toy shop called 'Gohachi' in Osaka. He apparently chose the name Gohachi in honour of his grandfather, Yamanouchi Gohachi, who raised him. We assume there is a connection between this manuscript and the shop, Gohachi. The preface of the manuscript is dated Taisho 9 (1920) and was apparently written by 'Maruku' which may be a pen name of a person named 'Sugino', whose name is written in parentheses. We have been unable to find any information about such a person. In any case, this is undoubtedly an important reference for anyone interested in Japanese toys and their history. Cover dated July, 1921, which was probably when the English translation was finished.
97 leaves of very fine gampi paper. First and final leave blank. 28.5 x 21.8cm.
In good condition. Card covers worn and creased across centre. Wear to edges of covers and some marks. Internally good with some age toning to pages. Corrections and notes on most pages, possibly by the translator himself. m35031370
