Product Details

A striking 1911 first edition of Wonder Tales of Old Japan by Alan Leslie Whitehorn, illustrated by Shozan Obata. This collection brings together Japanese folklore including Momotaro, Kintaro, the Tongue-Cut Sparrow and other tales of magical animals, heroic children, spirits and strange transformations. Beautifully presented in pictorial gilt-decorated cloth with 12 color plates by Obata. Most notably, this copy contains a dated presentation inscription signed by Whitehorn himself: “with best wishes from the Author,” dated September 16, 1911—giving this particular copy wonderful provenance. All plates are present; three are loose and will be included with the book. An exceptionally atmospheric combination of Japanese folklore, early color illustration and author-signed history.