寺田密次郎 ドクトル・エフ・エム・トラウツ **

 寺田密次郎 ドクトル・エフ・エム・トラウツ

This 1933 card was sent by Mitsujiro Terada (1885-1945) from Sapporo, Hokkaido, to Doctor F. M. Trautz. Terada was born in Shizuoka Prefecture in 1885 and graduated from Kokugakuin University. After serving as the chief priest of Izasumi Shrine, he became the chief priest of Hakodate Hachiman Shrine on February 6, 1930. On April 16, 1932, he became the chief priest of Sapporo Shrine, and also served as the shrine priest of Sapporo Shokonsha, the chief priest of Dewa Shrine, and the chief priest of Heian Shrine.

In the year following the sending of this New Year's greeting, Terada published a work titled "Haguroyama Kogyo Zufu" (羽黒山古鏡図譜), which suggests that it is an illustrated catalog or compilation of ancient mirrors found at Mount Haguro, a sacred site in the Dewa Sanzan region, which includes Mount Gassan and Mount Yudono. This region is significant in Shugendo, a syncretic religion combining elements of Shinto and Buddhism.

The publication date of Showa 9 (1934) aligns with his tenure as a prominent religious figure. The work focuses on ancient mirrors, which are important artifacts in both Shinto and Buddhist contexts, often used in rituals and as offerings. The reference to Tomotaro Ito, an archaeologist from Tado-cho, Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture, suggests that this work was part of his collection, indicating its value and significance in the field of archaeology and religious studies.

木場了本 (1885–1940) to F. M. Trautz **

木場了本 (1885–1940) to F. M. Trautz

This 1933 New Year's card was sent by 木場了本 (Kiba Ryōhon, 1885–1940) from Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa-ken.

Kiba Ryōhon was a Japanese Buddhist scholar and professor. Born in Toyama Prefecture, he graduated from the Department of Philosophy at Tokyo Imperial University in 1911. He became a professor at Shinshu Otani University in 1915 and studied abroad in Germany and England from 1920 to 1923. After returning to Japan, he continued his academic career as a professor at Otani University.

In 1928, he joined the Fourth High School, where he taught ethics, philosophy, psychology, and logic. He held various administrative positions, including head of student affairs, council member, and department head. Kiba was known for his deep knowledge of both Buddhist and Western philosophy. He passed away in November 1940 due to a traffic accident. One of his notable works is the co-translation of Schleiermacher's 'Monologues,' with his son, Kiba Jinjō (1907-1999), published in 1943. 

三條西 公正 1933年 エフ・エム・トラウツ **

三條西 公正 1933年 エフ・エム・トラウツ

This card sent by Sanjōnishi is postmarked Koishikawa (Tokyo) and dated January 3, 1933. It is addressed to ドクトル・エフ・エム・トラウツ and his wife. The embossed designs on this card are of particular interest, as they contain the same elements as the one sent by Miyako Taxi (see post dated September 18, 2023).

Miyako Taxi Postcard

Sanjōnishi Kino-sa (三條西 公正) was a nobleman, belonging to the esteemed Sanjōnishi family, which has a long history as part of the kuge, the Japanese court nobility. This aristocratic class served the Imperial Court in Kyoto for centuries, and the Sanjōnishi family has a distinguished legacy of contributing to Japanese culture and arts.

Kinosa was born on January 8, 1901, and he pursued a path of academic and cultural excellence from an early age. He graduated from Tokyo Imperial University, one of the most prestigious institutions in Japan. Following his education, he served as an inspector at the Imperial Museum, which showcased his deep involvement in preserving and promoting Japanese cultural heritage.

Sanjonishi Kinosa and his wife Nobuko

In 1947, Kinosa became the head of the Oie School of Kōdō, a traditional Japanese art form dedicated to the appreciation of incense. Under his leadership, he worked tirelessly to revive and develop Kōdō, ensuring its continued relevance and practice. His role as the president of the Japan Kodo Association further underscores his significant impact on this cultural art form.

Kinosa’s scholarly interests were not limited to Kōdō. He was also an expert in court arts and the history of Japanese clothing, and he was an accomplished calligrapher. His literary works, such as "Appreciation of Kumiko" and "An Overview of Japanese Clothing History," reflect his broad expertise and contribution to Japanese cultural studies.

His marriage to Princess Kuninomiya Nobuko, the younger sister of Empress Kōjun, cemented his status within the higher echelons of Japanese nobility. This union also underscores the Sanjōnishi family's close ties to the imperial family, further highlighting their prominent position in Japanese society.

Sanjōnishi Kinosa's legacy continued through his family, particularly through his successor, Sanjōnishi Saneaki, who also dedicated himself to the development of Kōdō. Kinosa's younger brother, Sanjōnishi Sanei, inherited the family name of their maternal uncle, Kuninomiya Kunihisa, ensuring the continuation of their noble lineage.

Kinosa passed away on January 25, 1984, at the age of 83, leaving behind a rich legacy of cultural and academic contributions. His work not only preserved traditional Japanese arts but also laid the foundation for their modern appreciation and study.

1933 Well Wishes from 手塚良道 to Doctor F. M. Trautz **

1933 Well Wishes from 手塚良道 to Doctor F. M. Trautz

This card was sent from Hakushima Nakamachi, Hiroshima by 手塚良道 (Tezuka Yoshimichi, 1889-1961), and is addressed to トラウツ博士殿. The term 博士殿 (hakase-dono) is a respectful way to address someone who holds a doctoral degree in Japan. "博士" (hakase) means "doctor" (as in a PhD), and "殿" (dono) is an honorific suffix that conveys respect, similar to "sir" or "madam." The combination 博士殿 (hakase-dono) would thus translate to "Dr. Trautz" in a very respectful manner.

Tezuka, who also used the pen name 豊溪 (Hōkei), was a notable Japanese author and educator who made significant contributions to the study and teaching of Chinese philosophy and literature. In 1914, Tezuka graduated from the Chinese Philosophy Department of the Faculty of Letters at Tokyo Imperial University, one of Japan's most prestigious institutions of higher learning at the time. The Faculty of Letters offered a wide range of humanities and social science disciplines, including the study of classical Chinese texts, Confucianism, Daoism, and other traditional Chinese philosophical schools of thought.

Tezuka authored several influential works, including:

儒教道徳に於ける君臣思想 (Thoughts on Lord and Vassal in Confucian Ethics): This book explores the Confucian concept of the ethical relationship between rulers and their subjects, which is a cornerstone of Confucian political philosophy.

新制女子漢文 (New System of Chinese Literature for Women): In this work, Tezuka adapted classical Chinese literature for women's education, reflecting his progressive views on the accessibility of knowledge and the importance of women's education.

支那精神 (The Spirit of China): This publication delves into the cultural and spiritual essence of China, aiming to provide a deeper understanding of Chinese ethos and its historical development.

支那思想史略 (A Brief History of Chinese Thought): This book offers an overview of the evolution of Chinese philosophical thought, highlighting key ideas and figures that shaped Chinese intellectual history.

Tezuka Yoshimichi's contributions to the study of Chinese philosophy and literature, along with his efforts to make this knowledge accessible to a broader audience, have left a lasting impact on the field. His works continue to be recognized for their depth of insight and scholarly rigor.

中野楚渓 (Nakano Sokei) エフ・エム・トラウツ **

中野楚渓 (Nakano Sokei) エフ・エム・トラウツ

Based on the information contained in this 1933 dated New Year's card (芸苑巡礼会 / 京都林泉協会 / 中野芸術院 / 京都市丸太町烏丸西入), we can relate the following:

中野楚渓 (Nakano Sokei)

Nakano Sokei was a distinguished figure in the Japanese arts community, known for his significant contributions to the documentation, preservation, and promotion of Japanese cultural heritage. He was actively involved in several prominent cultural and artistic organizations, each playing a crucial role in preserving and enhancing Japan's rich artistic traditions.

芸苑巡礼会 (Geien Junreikai)

Nakano Sokei was closely associated with the Geien Junreikai, a society dedicated to the exploration and appreciation of Japanese art and cultural sites. The society organized cultural pilgrimages and produced publications to promote a deeper understanding of Japan's artistic heritage. Through these activities, the Geien Junreikai sought to foster a greater appreciation for traditional Japanese art forms and cultural landmarks.

京都林泉協会 (Kyoto Rinsen Kyokai)

Nakano Sokei was also involved with the Kyoto Rinsen Kyokai, an organization co-founded by the influential landscape architect Shigemori Mirei in 1932. The Kyoto Rinsen Kyokai focused on the study and preservation of Japanese gardens, an integral part of Japan's cultural legacy. The association conducted meticulous surveys and research, culminating in the publication of the "Illustrated Book on the History of the Japanese Garden." This work significantly contributed to the documentation and revival of many historical gardens in Japan.

中野芸術院 (Nakano Geijutsuin)

Nakano Sokei established the Nakano Geijutsuin, an institution dedicated to the promotion and education of traditional Japanese arts. The Geijutsuin aimed to preserve and disseminate Japan's artistic heritage through exhibitions, educational programs, and collaborations with artists and scholars. By fostering an environment of learning and appreciation, the Nakano Geijutsuin played a vital role in maintaining the vibrancy of Japanese cultural practices.

京都市丸太町烏丸西入 (Kyoto-shi Marutamachi Karasuma Nishiiru)

Nakano Sokei was based in Kyoto, specifically in the area of Marutamachi Karasuma Nishiiru. Kyoto, a city renowned for its historical and cultural significance, provided a rich backdrop for Sokei's work and contributions to the arts. His presence in this cultural hub underscored his dedication to preserving and promoting Japan's artistic traditions.

In summary, Nakano Sokei's involvement with the Geien Junreikai, Kyoto Rinsen Kyokai, and Nakano Geijutsuin highlights his multifaceted contributions to the preservation and promotion of Japanese cultural heritage. His efforts in these organizations reflect his deep commitment to fostering a greater appreciation for Japan's rich artistic and cultural history.