Japanese Yokai and Other Supernatural Beings: Authentic Paintings and Prints of 100 Ghosts, Demons, Monsters and Magicians

This book showcases 100 authentic illustrations and descriptions of Japan's supernatural creatures, including demons, monsters, ogres, ghosts, and magicians, from folklore and popular culture. The illustrations are drawn from early Japanese prints, books, and paintings from leading museums, libraries, and private collections worldwide, and two long handscrolls from the Minneapolis Institute of Art are reproduced for the first time.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 19 April 2023
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing

Japan's captivating world of supernatural creatures, known as yokai, encompasses a vast array of mythical beings that have captured the imagination of readers for centuries. These enigmatic entities include demons, monsters, ogres, ghosts, and magicians, each with their unique characteristics and stories. In this captivating book, Andreas Marks, a renowned authority on Japanese woodblock prints, presents a comprehensive collection of authentic illustrations and detailed descriptions of 100 different yokai creatures. From the mischievous Bakeneko, monster cats in human form who enjoy licking lamp oil and preying on humans born in the year of the Rat, to the fearsome Han nya, female demons with sharp horns, metallic eyes, and a smirking smile, these mythical beings come to life in Andreas' vivid illustrations. The book also features the eerie Mikoshi-nyudo, yokai with extraordinarily long necks that appear only at night, and many other captivating creatures. These illustrations are drawn from the rich canon of early Japanese prints, books, and paintings, sourced from leading museums, libraries, and private collections worldwide. The striking visual examples showcase the original forms and appearances of these mythical beings, providing a deeper understanding of their origins and influence on Japanese folklore and popular culture. In addition to the illustrations, the book includes two long handscrolls from the Minneapolis Institute of Art, reproduced here for the first time. These handscrolls, titled "A Collection of Monsters" and "Night Parade of One Hundred Demons," offer a unique glimpse into the world of yokai and the artistic traditions of early Japan. Overall, this captivating book is a must-have for anyone interested in Japanese mythology, folklore, and art. It provides a fascinating insight into the world of yokai and showcases the incredible talent and creativity of the artists who have depicted these mythical creatures over the centuries. Whether you are a seasoned reader of traditional stories or a newcomer to the world of yokai, this book will transport you to a realm of enchantment and wonder.

Weight: 1021g
Dimension: 254 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9784805317150