A fascinating handwritten Japanese manuscript notebook dating from the late Edo to early Meiji period (circa 1850–1880). Crafted on traditional handmade washi paper and bound with a string-tied top binding, this compact notebook reveals a glimpse into Japan’s educational and literary past.
The text is entirely written in flowing hentaigana (variant kana) and sōgana cursive script, representing the classical writing style used before the modern kana system was standardized. Each page showcases personal handwriting practice, literary excerpts, or diary-like notes, executed with brush and sumi ink.
This small format notebook was likely used by a scholar or student for calligraphy, poetry composition, or language study, making it a rare example of everyday literacy and artistic training in early modern Japan.
With its aged paper texture, visible ink bleed, and elegant brush rhythm, this artifact embodies the beauty of pre-modern Japanese script and cultural refinement.
