MURASAKI, Shikibu.

Inquire · Offered by Peter Harrington

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

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