Tenmon Zukai 天文圖解 [Illustrated Explanation of Astronomy]

Numerous in-text illustrations. 5 volumes, orig wrappers, large 8vo(22.7x15.7cm). 大阪書林, Ōsaka, 元禄二暦林鐘中旬, 1689 or meiji-period.

An exceptionally early Japanese illustrated treatise on astronomy, published in 1689 (Genroku 2), and compiled by Iguchi Tsunenori (井口常範)—one of the key figures transmitting early Chinese and Jesuit astronomical knowledge into Tokugawa Japan. The Tenmon Zukai (“Illustrated Explanation of Astronomy”) provides a richly illustrated overview of celestial phenomena, including diagrams of the sun, moon, planets, eclipses, comets, constellations, and cosmological models derived from both traditional Chinese astronomy (tenmon-gaku) and the newly introduced Western (Jesuit) systems. The numerous woodcuts show detailed orbital schemata and astronomical instruments, demonstrating the transitional state of Japanese astronomical thought during the late 17th century, when Sino-Western hybrid cosmology was gaining influence. This work stands among the earliest printed Japanese attempts to visualize celestial order scientifically, preceding the systematic importation of European astronomical treatises in the 18th and 19th centuries.

A Meiji-period reprint by Ganshōdō is known, identifiable by a publisher’s catalogue at the end; our copy does not include this catalogue, and its issue—Genroku or Meiji—cannot be firmly determined.

Original wrappers, slightly rubbed; minor water stain to the lower part of the first volume’s cover; occasional light foxing; housed in a red case.

Please note: A 10% consumption tax will be added for orders shipped within Japan.