JOHN STEVENS - The Pillow Book of Spring and Laughter - Limited edition with Jacket - 2001

This rare and comprehensive book, subtitled "Eroticism in Japan in the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa Periods," is a fascinating read.

The book was written by American author John Stevens (1947–2025, passed away in July). He was a professor of Buddhist studies and aikido.

Written in both English and Japanese, this book will help you deepen your understanding of shunga. All illustrations are accompanied by captions, and there's a comprehensive index at the end.

In addition to works by masters such as Katsushika Hokusai, Izumo Taisha (Underwater Couple), and Fukiya Koji (Taisho Period), it also includes works by representative modern artists of the Taisho and Showa periods, such as Iwata Sentaro, Kimura Shohachi, and Ito Ikuzo.

Many lesser-known illustrations make for a fascinating read.

26.5 x 19.5 cm, 153 numbered pages.
The book is in good condition with its dust jacket.