Genji monogatari ("The Tale of Genji"). Chapter 20, Asagao ("Morning Glory").

MURASAKI, Shikibu.

Published by [Japan: 19th century]

About this Item

A manuscript copy, written in a free-flowing style typical of the Edo period. This chapter sees Genji court a long time crush, Princess Asagao, recently retired from her role as high priestess of Kamo Shrine. He is rejected and spends a snowy night with his wife, Murasaki no Ue, reflecting on his past relationships. The Tale of Genji is a classic of Japanese literature written by Murasaki Shikibu (c.973-1025) in the mid-Heian period. It is known as the oldest novel in the world and the first written by a woman. "At its most basic, The Tale of Genji is an absorbing introduction to the culture of the aristocracy in early Heian Japan - its forms of entertainment, its manner of dress, its daily life, and its moral code. The era is exquisitely re-created through the story of Genji, the handsome, sensitive, gifted courtier, an excellent lover and a worthy friend" (Ency. Brit.). This manuscript is one of many annotated copies of the Genji, with detailed descriptions of the meaning of words and metaphors. Provenance: Ohya Shobo Ltd, April 2006 - Martin Schøyen (b. 1940), the Norwegian collector of rare books and manuscripts, with his pencil pressmark on the front lining (MS 5328). Quarto. Manuscript in Japanese. Original buff paper wrappers, renewed green thread fukuro-toji binding. Manuscript ink "x" on front wrapper, dried leaves internally. Binding a little creased and scuffed, especially along joints, title label missing, contents bright: a very good example.

Seller Inventory # 185514

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Genji monogatari ("The Tale of Genji"). Chapter 20, Asagao ("Morning Glory").
• Publisher: [Japan: 19th century]
• Seller catalogs:
  • ASIA