Jiguchi Andon Nazoe-awase (地口行燈なぞ合)
Edo Period Illustrated Humor & Riddle Book
An authentic Edo-period color-illustrated woodblock book blending humor, popular culture, and artistic wit.
This lively publication, Jiguchi Andon Nazoe-awase (“Playful Word Lantern Riddles”), presents an illustrated anthology of visual puns, word games, and festival amusements that were part of Japan’s vibrant urban entertainment culture during the 19th century.
The opening cover illustration features a beautifully dressed Edo bijin (fashionable woman) holding a picture scroll — a classic motif representing art and play. Inside, readers find a series of humorous poems (kyōka), riddle verses, and ukiyo-e style illustrations depicting merchants, entertainers, and scenes of daily life in the city.
Printed in black and indigo ink on handmade washi, this edition exemplifies Edo humor and print culture — a delightful example of how art and laughter intertwined in the floating world.
Title: 地口行燈なぞ合 (Jiguchi Andon Nazoe-awase)
Translation: Lantern Riddle Wordplay Collection
Period: Late Edo Period (19th century)
Technique: Woodblock printing with hand-colored cover
Format: Fukuro-toji (pouch binding)
Language: Classical Japanese
Content: Illustrated proverbs, puns, humorous poems, festival scenes
Origin: Japan
This rare illustrated humor book offers a glimpse into the playful spirit of Edo society, when printed books became a key part of entertainment and education.
Its pages combine the elegance of ukiyo-e with the humor of everyday speech — making it a perfect addition for collectors of Japanese popular art, literature, or Edo ephemera.
