Ukiyo Kokinshu Manuscript with illustrations by Wakabayashi Sobun
[Japan] A very nice manuscript book with illustrations by Wakabayashi Sobun (1828-1884). The preface mentions September and is otherwise undated but the manuscript appears to be from the late Edo- early Meiji era (c1860s-70s). The first double-page illustration is rather impressive and shows men and women entertaining themselves in a tea house of similar establishment. Then there is a nice outdoor scene with people enjoying the cherry blossom season. After a few blank leaves we see a young lady playing with two young children followed by a folding screen with a kimono sash (obi) draped over it along with a tea set on the floor. The next few leaves are blank and then we find a very nice illustration of a cooked fish on a plate and tray with other food items. After a few more blank leaves, there is an illustration of vegetables in and next to a basket along with a wooden container. Next is a group of men playing the board game shogi. After a number of blank leaves we find two ladies in beautiful kimono looking at sashes. A pair of scissors can be seen so perhaps they are making some adjustments to the material. A few leaves later we see two men sitting, one playing a shamisen and the other presumably being entertained by him. Some bowls and a bottle of sake can be seen between them. The final illustration shows one man being bowed to by another. The man looks to be somewhat important but this could also be a representation of kabuki actors.
Handwritten and coloured manuscript. No place. No date (c1860s-70s).
52 leaves (with illustrations on 13 pages, the rest being blank).
In good to very good condition. Covers worn with some minor damage and age wear. Internally very good with general age wear and a few stray marks. b37041845
