Japan in a Nutshell [Two-Volume Set] [Decorative Silk Wraps] [Signed Association]

Sakai, Atsuharu (1873-1962)

Published by Yamagata Print. Co, Yokohama, 1952

About this Item

A unique association set capturing the intersection of Japanese tradition and post-war diplomacy. This finely produced two-volume cultural handbook offers an insider's view of Japanese religious life, domestic customs, and everyday practices during the post-war transition. Written by Atsuharu Sakai-a key figure in cultural diplomacy and the Fujiya Hotel's resident historian-this set was designed to provide Western diplomats, military personnel, and travelers with an authoritative yet accessible ethnographic guide. The work is notable for its detailed treatment of Shinto and Buddhist practice, vernacular architecture, and the psychological nuances of Japanese tradition, all presented through the lens of a nation re-introducing itself to the world following the Allied occupation. KEY FEATURES +++ Visuals: Extensively illustrated with clear line drawings depicting shrines, ritual objects, domestic implements (irori and kotatsu), and religious ceremonies. Includes a double-page map. +++ Binding: Traditional Japanese stab binding (fukuro-toji) with French-folded leaves. Both volumes retain their original patterned silk-textile wraps: Vol. I in a figural motif and Vol. II in a botanical-and-bird motif. +++ Content: Vol. I focuses on Religion, Culture, and Popular Practice; Vol. II explores Japanese Psychology, Tradition, Customs, and Manners. +++ Imprint: Yokohama; Yamagata Printing Co. 1949 (Vol. I) and 1952 (Vol. II). +++ Specs: Octavo; 8.5 inches tall. xii, 397 pages (continuous). +++ Scholarship: Functions as a vital ethnographic document of the Meiji-Sh?wa transition, specifically curated for the Western gaze. +++ Association: Laid into Volume II is a signed typed letter from Atsuharu Sakai on Fujiya Hotel (Hakone) letterhead, addressed to Major W. N. Tarrance of 'Radio Tokyo'. The letter invites Tarrance for a cultural visit and offers to autograph Sakai's famous 'We Japanese', directly documenting the author's role in cultural diplomacy with foreign military broadcasters. CONDITION +++ Very Good+. +++ The Books: The bindings are tight and square; the French-folded leaves remain crisp and clean with no significant foxing or toning. +++ The Silk: The decorative textile wraps are remarkably well-preserved, maintaining vibrant color and texture. The printed paper title labels are intact and clean. A superior set, infrequently found in such fresh condition due to the fragile nature of the silk. HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE -- Atsuharu Sakai was a primary architect of Japanese cultural outreach during the mid-20th century. Working from the historic Fujiya Hotel-a hub for foreign dignitaries and military brass-Sakai authored several works intended to bridge the gap between Japanese tradition and Western understanding. Japan in a Nutshell is a sophisticated distillation of his efforts, moving beyond mere tourism to explain the spiritual and psychological frameworks of the Japanese home. The inclusion of the signed letter to Major Tarrance of Radio Tokyo provides a specific 'Association' that anchors the set in the era of the Allied occupation. It illustrates how Sakai utilized his literary output as a tool of cultural diplomacy, engaging directly with the influential voices of the foreign media presence in Tokyo. This set serves as a primary artifact of the 'Hakone' school of cultural interpretation during Japan's post-war reintegration. SUBJECTS: Japanese Ethnography, Shintoism, Buddhism, Post-War Occupation, Radio Tokyo History, Cultural Diplomacy, Fujiya Hotel, Japanese Decorative Arts, Association Copy, Signed Letter, Illustrated Non-Fiction, Japanese Bindings.

Seller Inventory # 21677

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Japan in a Nutshell [Two-Volume Set] [Decorative Silk Wraps] [Signed Association]
• Publisher: Yamagata Print. Co, Yokohama
• Publication Date: 1952
• Edition: First Edition.
• Condition: Very Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: No Dust Jacket, As Issued
• Weight: 4 pounds
• Signed: Signed
• Seller catalogs:
  • TRAVEL, EXPLORATION & GEOGRAPHY
  • FINE PRESS and BINDINGS
  • HISTORY