幸田成友 Koda Shigetomo 1933 to F. M. Trautz and Hilda

幸田成友 Koda Shigetomo 1933 to F. M. Trautz and Hilda

Postmarked January 1, 1933, from Yodobashi (Tokyo), this postcard is addressed to F. M. Trautz and his wife. It was sent by Kōda Shigetomo from 440 Kamiogikubo, Suginami-ku, Tokyo.

Kōda Shigetomo (幸田成友, 1873-1954) was a distinguished Japanese historian and economic historian, renowned for his significant contributions to the study of Japanese history, particularly the Edo period. Born in Tokyo in 1873, he was the younger brother of the famous writer Kōda Shigeyuki (幸田成行, 1867-1947), known by his pen name Kōda Rohan. Shigetomo graduated from Tokyo Imperial University in 1896 and later engaged in the compilation of the "History of Osaka City" from 1901 to 1909. He went on to teach at institutions such as Keio University and Tokyo College of Commerce, where he imparted his knowledge and passion for history to many students.

His scholarly pursuits led him to publish "Studies in Japanese Economic History" in 1928, earning him a Doctor of Literature degree. Shigetomo's research focused on various aspects of the Edo period's economic and urban history, with a particular emphasis on Osaka and Edo. He also conducted groundbreaking research on the history of Japan-Europe relations, spending two years studying in Europe, primarily in the Netherlands. Shigetomo's works, including "Oshio Heihachiro" and "Edo to Osaka", are considered seminal texts in the field of Japanese historical studies. Even after his death in 1954, his influence and legacy continue to inspire scholars in Japan and around the world.

1933 New Year's Greetings from 仙心堂書店 - 名山堂書店 - 山口屋 to F. M. Trautz

These are typical greeting cards sent from businesses to Trautz. Senshindo Shoten 仙心堂書店 was a bookstore. Meizando Shoten 名山堂書店 was also a bookstore and described their business as a nationwide purveyor for schools, government offices, and libraries. As for Yamaguchiya 山口屋 , we are not able to identify their business.

Naruse Kiyoshi 成瀬清 (成瀬無極) to Dr. F. M. Trautz 1933

Japanese Scholar Naruse Kiyoshi Greetings to Friedrich Max Trautz

Naruse Kiyoshi 成瀬清  (成瀬無極) to Dr. F. M. Trautz 1933

This postcard postmarked in Kyoto and dated January 4, 1933 was sent by Naruse Kiyoshi  (1885-1958) to Doctor Trautz. 

成瀬清 (Naruse Kiyoshi), also known as 成瀬無極 (Naruse Mukyoku), was a distinguished Japanese scholar born in 1885. He graduated from the German Department of Tokyo Imperial University, reflecting his strong academic background and multilingual proficiency. This education laid the foundation for his diverse and influential career, as he became known for his contributions to literature, education, and cultural studies.

Naruse's education at Tokyo Imperial University was instrumental in shaping his intellectual pursuits. The rigorous curriculum and exposure to Western literary and philosophical traditions provided him with a broad perspective that he skillfully integrated into his work. His proficiency in German allowed him to engage deeply with German literature and philosophy, enriching his own scholarly output and enabling cross-cultural dialogues.

As a scholar, Naruse Kiyoshi made significant contributions to Japanese literature and cultural studies. His analyses of classical Japanese texts were marked by a unique blend of traditional scholarship and modern critical methods. Naruse's ability to interpret ancient literature through a contemporary lens brought renewed attention to these works and highlighted their enduring relevance. His writings often explored the interplay between Japanese and Western literary traditions, offering fresh insights and fostering a deeper understanding of cultural exchanges.

In addition to his scholarly work, Naruse was a dedicated educator. He taught at various institutions, where he influenced many students with his knowledge and passion for literature and culture. His commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as he actively participated in academic societies and contributed to the development of educational curricula. Naruse's efforts in education were aimed at nurturing a new generation of scholars who would continue to explore and expand upon his work.

Japanese Geographer Akira Nakanome 中目覚 to F. M. Trautz 1933 Postcard

 中目覚 to Hilda and F. M. Trautz

Japanese Geographer Akira Nakanome 中目覚  to F. M. Trautz

This January 9, 1933 天王寺 (Tennoji...Osaka) postmarked card was sent by 中目覺 (Akira Nakanome) and addressed to Mr. and Mrs. Trautz.

Akira Nakanome, born on May 23, 1874, in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, was a prominent geographer, linguist, educational administrator, and Esperantist. He pursued higher education in German Literature at the Imperial University of Japan, where he graduated at the top of his class in 1899. His academic excellence earned him a silver watch from the Emperor. After graduation, Nakanome began his career as a professor of German language at the Fourth Higher School, which later became Kanazawa University. In 1903, he took a teaching position at the newly established Hiroshima Higher Normal School, now known as Hiroshima University, where he taught German and geography for a brief period before being sent by the Ministry of Education to Austria-Hungary for advanced studies.

In Vienna, Nakanome studied under renowned geographers Penck and Brückner at the University of Vienna. His research focused on Quaternary glacial landforms, climatology, and geography. In 1904, he embarked on significant research expeditions to the eastern Alps, Switzerland, and along the Rhine River to Brussels. These experiences and observations were later compiled into his 1920 publication, "The Alps and the Rhine."

Returning to Japan, Nakanome established a geography education course at Hiroshima Higher Normal School in 1907. That same year, he conducted the first academic survey of Akiyoshido Cave with Edward Gauntlett, a member of the Royal Geographical Society. Nakanome went on to lecture in geography at various institutions, including Matsuyama High School and Kyoto Imperial University.

During World War II, Nakanome served as the director of the North China Japanese Language Education Research Institute, where he promoted Japanese language education on the continent. He later became the first principal of the Osaka School of Foreign Studies, which evolved into Osaka University of Foreign Studies. His extensive travels for geographical surveys took him to every continent except the polar regions. Notably, he formed a friendship with Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie I during a research trip to Africa.

Nakanome's contributions extended beyond geography to include linguistics and the deciphering of ancient characters in Temiya Cave in Otaru. As an avid Esperantist, he discovered the language during a stay in Brussels in 1905 and later co-founded the Hiroshima Esperanto Club with his colleague Naoe Ohno. Akira Nakanome's diverse achievements and dedication to his fields made him a leading figure of his time. He passed away on March 27, 1959, leaving a lasting legacy in geography, linguistics, and education.

金子元臣 Friedrich M. Trautz 1933 Tokyo **

Japanese Poet Kaneko Moto-Omi to F. M. Trautz 1933 

金子元臣 Friedrich M. Trautz 1933 Tokyo

This postcard addressed to Trautz has a postmark from Koishikawa, Tokyo dated Jan. 1, 1933.

Kaneko Moto-Omi, 金子元臣, also known as Kaneko Makien, was a prominent Japanese literature scholar and tanka poet, born in Shizuoka in 1869. Despite being self-educated, he demonstrated remarkable dedication to learning and scholarship, earning a place at Kokugakuin University and later becoming a professor there. He also taught at Keio University and was a member of the Imperial Poetry Department.

Kaneko was known for his deep understanding and appreciation of Japanese poetry and culture. His works, such as the "Manyoshu Commentary," showcased his expertise in the field. He was also the editor of the tanka magazine Akebono and authored several influential works, including "Commentary on the Kokin Wakashu," "Commentary on the Pillow Book," and "A New Interpretation of the Definitive Edition of the Tale of Genji."

Throughout his career, Kaneko imparted his knowledge and passion for Japanese literature, leaving a lasting impact on the field. His contributions and role as a leading figure in the school of poetry have solidified his legacy as a prominent scholar and educator. Kaneko Motoomi passed away in 1944, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to inspire scholars and poets alike.

羽田亨 1933 Postcard to F. M. Trautz **

Japanese Scholar Haneda Tōru to F. M. Trautz 1933 Postcard **

羽田亨 1933 Postcard to F. M. Trautz

Postmarked Jan. 5, 1933, Kyoto.

Haneda Tōru (羽田亨, 1882-1955) was a distinguished Japanese scholar whose pioneering research in Central Asian history and Silk Road studies significantly advanced our understanding of cultural and historical exchanges between China and its neighboring regions. His contributions laid the foundation for modern Asian studies, bridging Eastern and Western academic traditions.

Born in Kyoto, Japan, in 1882, Haneda pursued higher education at Tokyo Imperial University, studying under prominent scholars specializing in Chinese history. His academic rigor and passion for learning set him on a path to becoming one of the foremost experts in Asian studies.

In the early 20th century, Haneda traveled to France to further his research. His time there was crucial for his academic development, as he engaged with leading French scholars and immersed himself in Western methodologies. This experience enriched his perspective and deepened his understanding of Central Asian history and the Silk Road.

Upon returning to Japan, Haneda joined the faculty of Kyoto Imperial University (now Kyoto University), where he became a key figure in Asian studies. As a professor, he mentored numerous students and contributed to establishing Asian studies as a distinct academic discipline in Japan.

In addition to his scholarly achievements, Haneda played a crucial role in fostering academic exchange between Japan and Western countries. His efforts helped bridge cultural and academic gaps, promoting a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of Asian history and culture.

Haneda's scholarly output was extensive, with several key publications that have had a lasting impact on the field:

「支那歴史地理研究」 (Shina Rekishi Chiri Kenkyū, Studies in Chinese Historical Geography): This work explores the geographical dimensions of Chinese history, emphasizing how geography influenced historical events and cultural interactions.

「シルクロード研究」 (Shirukurōdo Kenkyū, Studies on the Silk Road): Haneda's comprehensive study of the Silk Road examines its role as a conduit for cultural, economic, and technological exchanges between East and West.

「西域文化研究」 (Seiiki Bunka Kenkyū, Studies in Central Asian Culture): This book investigates the cultural exchanges between Central Asia and neighboring regions, particularly focusing on the influences on Chinese culture.

「東亜文化交流史」 (Tōa Bunka Kōryūshi, History of East Asian Cultural Exchanges): Analyzing historical cultural exchanges within East Asia, this work highlights the region's interconnectedness and the flow of ideas, art, and technology.

「東西文化交流史」 (Tōzai Bunka Kōryūshi, History of East-West Cultural Exchanges): This book explores the interactions between Eastern and Western cultures, emphasizing the Silk Road's role in facilitating these connections.

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.

北野神社 (北野天満宮) の足立茂から エフ・エム・トラウツ *

北野神社 (北野天満宮) の足立茂から エフ・エム・トラウツ

Adachi Shigeru's association with Kanpeichusha Kitano Jinjya, known today as Kitano-Tenmangu, suggests he may have been involved in the shrine's operations or administration. His return address in Kyoto provides a specific location where he likely worked. This information helps place him within a historical context related to the shrine and its activities.

足立茂, 官幣中社 北野神社, 京都市大将軍鷹司町三六ノ一八

昭和8年 河野清晃からの年賀状 F. M. Trautz **

昭和8年 河野清晃からの年賀状 F. M. Trautz

準別格本山総持院, 執事, 河野清晃, 和歌山県高野山

This is a 1933 New Year's card sent from Seikō Kōno to Trautz. Kono, born in Fukuoka Prefecture on August 23, 1906, was a Buddhist monk, artist, art collector, author, and President of the German-Japanese Society in Nara. He authored 高野山根本大塔の研究 "A Study of the Konpon Daito of Mount Koya" in 1934-5 (also known as Der Große Stūpa auf dem Kōyasan in Germany), which Trautz translated from Japanese to German.

At the age of eleven, Kono enlisted in the Shingon sect. As a youth, he was an avid mountaineer, mainly climbing in the Koyasan region. In 1940, he became the superintendent priest of Daianji Temple in Nara, but during WWII, he was drafted to serve in the army. In 1956, he started the "Nara Japanese-German Association," with Daianji as its headquarters. He died on November 16, 2001, at the age of 95. His death was announced in many Japanese papers and on TV.

高野山根本大塔の研究

Kono Seikou had a significant relationship with Dr. F.M. Trautz, a professor at the University of Berlin and head of the Kyoto Nara-Nichi-Do Cultural Institute. This relationship was sparked by Kono's scholarly work, "A Study of the Konpon Daito of Mount Koya," which was published during his time at Koyasan University. Dr. Trautz translated this work into German and introduced it to the world, contributing to Seikou's international recognition. This collaboration reflects Seikou's commitment to promoting cultural exchange and his efforts to engage with scholars and institutions beyond Japan.

Ueno Naoteru 上野直昭 to F. M. Trautz and Hilda Trautz **

Ueno Naoteru 上野直昭 to F. M. Trautz and Hilda Trautz

Naoteru Ueno (1882-1973) was a prominent Japanese aesthetician and scholar, born in 1882 in Kobe. He graduated from the University of Tokyo in 1908 and went on to work as an assistant to Professor Yasuharu Otsuka in the field of aesthetics. Ueno conducted research on picture scrolls and received funding from the Toshogu Shrine Three Hundredth Anniversary Celebration Committee for his work.

In his career, Ueno held various academic positions, including lecturer at Tokyo Women's University and Keijo Imperial University. He also spent two years in Europe and the United States for research in aesthetics and art history. Ueno served as a professor at Keijo Imperial University and later became the dean of the Faculty of Law and Literature there.

During his career, Ueno made significant contributions to the study of Japanese art history. He served as a visiting professor in Germany, lecturing on Japanese art history at the University of Berlin. He also held positions such as director of the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts and president of Tokyo University of the Arts.

Ueno was involved in the preservation of cultural properties in Japan and was a member of the National Treasure Preservation Society. He was elected as a member of the Japan Academy in 1946 in recognition of his academic achievements. Ueno passed away in 1973 at the age of 90.

Note: Paper by Professor Miyuki Yasumatsu of Beppu University makes for interesting reading, as she writes about numerous connections between Trautz and Ueno in "美術史家上野直昭とベルリンの(日本研究所 Japaninstitut) の活動をめぐって" - Art Historian Naoteru Ueno and the Activities of the "Japaninstitut" in Berlin.

朴木千太郎 to Dr. F. M. Trautz *

朴木千太郎 to Dr. F. M. Trautz 

This 1933 New Year's greeting card was sent by Hōnoki Sentarō from Osaka. He listed his address as 325 Kamisumiyoshi-chō, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka (大阪市住吉区上住吉町三二五番地), with a telephone number of Sumiyoshi 2850 (電話住吉二八五〇番). However, he seems to have been lost to history, as I was unable to obtain any information about him.

川崎市蔵 Kawasaki Ichizo to Doctor Trautz 1932 and 1933 *

川崎市蔵 Kawasaki Ichizo to Doctor Trautz 1932

This New Year's card from 1932 was sent by Ichizo Kawasaki of Yoshioen in Zushioku, Yamashina-cho, Kyoto. Other than being an educator and possibly an author of several books, not much else was available about him online. In the following year, 1933, Kawasaki sent another card. Unlike his 1932 card, the reverse of this card is wholly preprinted with all the pertinent information, clearly intended for mass distribution. He made a small error in Trautz's name by forgetting to write 'ラ' in トラウツ and simply adding it on the right side in between ト and ウ.

Kawasaki's decision to add the missing character to the card instead of creating a new one can be seen as a frugal choice, suggesting resourcefulness and efficiency. However, it could also be interpreted as a sign of sloppiness, depending on one's perspective.

川崎市蔵 Kawasaki Ichizo to Doctor Trautz 1933

細井丑太 1933 Postcard to ドクトル・エフ・エム・都良宇津 *

細井丑太 1933 Postcard to ドクトル・エフ・エム・都良宇津

Postmarked January 4, 1933, this New Year's Greetings card was sent by someone named Hosoi Ushita. However, the character 丑 used in his name may not be definitive, as his handwriting is unclear. The most likely assumption was made based on the number of strokes and similarity to that character. An online search yielded no results for such a given name as 丑太, until I accidentally discovered a work called "Gyakugun no Hata" by Fujisawa Shuhei, where there was a character named 丑太, much to my surprise. Since I am not 100% certain about the correctness of the character as written by Hosoi, it remains just an assumption.

The return address and the picture postcard depicting 'The Museum Hall Kotohira Sanuki' suggest Hosoi's possible affiliation to religious sects, given the cultural context of Kotohira. Interestingly, Trautz had many acquaintances who belonged to both Shintoism and Buddhism, adding a layer of complexity to the sender's religious affiliation.

Hosoi uses uncenventional kanji here, 都良宇津, to address Trautz. He also writes a note: 数ナラヌ私XXXXヲＸＸ / 御Ｘ情厚ク感謝ＸＸマス. Some characters cannot be deciphered, but this note seems to thank Trautz and express appreciation for his kindness.

Tomoeda Takahiko (友枝高彦) to Doctor Trautz 1933 **

Tomoeda Takahiko (友枝高彦) to Doctor Trautz 1933

This is an interesting card for several reasons. There is a printed background depicting chickens and roosters for the sign of the zodiac for the year 1933. This print is quite light and does not standout at the observer, so unless it is viewed at a certain angle, it is difficult to see and it seems to just disappear, as the greetings in black ink with the red stamp above it overtakes the the card as a whole. The red stamp appears to be handstamped, but it is actually printed. 

Tomoeda Takahiko (友枝高彦) was a Japanese philosopher and professor who played a significant role in strengthening relations between Japan and Germany in the 1920s and 1930s. Born in 1876 in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, Tomoeda studied philosophy and ethics at the University of Tokyo before becoming a professor at Kyoto Imperial University.

Tomoeda Takahiko (友枝高彦)

During the Russo-Japanese War, he traveled to Europe as a secretary, where he was impressed by liberalism in England. Tomoeda later studied in Berlin and Leipzig, deepening his understanding of German philosophy and culture.

Returning to Japan, Tomoeda became a professor at the University of Tokyo and was actively involved in educational policies. He also served as the head of the Japanese-German Cultural Institute in Tokyo, promoting cultural exchange between the two countries.

After retiring, Tomoeda founded educational institutions in Japan and continued to write on ethics, pedagogy, and cultural topics. He received recognition for his contributions to academia and cultural exchange. Tomoeda passed away in 1957 in Tokyo, leaving a lasting impact on Japanese-German relations and education.

ロゴス書店 神戸 昭和8年 年賀状 *

ロゴス書店 神戸 昭和8年 年賀状

トラウツ

This 1933 postcard, addressed to M. Trautz, originates from Logos Bookstore in Kobe, renowned for its collection of rare foreign books. The store enjoyed significant popularity before World War II, often publishing catalogs of its extensive stock. Logos was a nationally renowned second-hand bookstore managed by Maeda Umetaro (前田楳太郎).

For more information about Logos and other rare book dealers of the time, see below:

https://www.sogensha.co.jp/page03/a_rensai/kosho/kosho26.html

ロゴスは三宮町二丁目の生田筋にあった洋書の専門店。目録も二種類出していて、古典目録の方は私の手元には昭10年9月発行の11号が確認できる。私が最近、神戸のロードス書房から入手した昭6年の9号には貴重な店の写真が載っている。神戸、大阪、東京での百貨店の販売会にもよく出品し、全国的に知られ、活躍した。

"Logos was a specialty store for Western books located on Ikuta-suji in Sannomiya-cho, Nada Ward. It issued two types of catalogs, and I can confirm that the Classical Catalog, No. 11, was issued in September of the 1935 (Shōwa 10) year. Recently, I acquired No. 9 from the 1931 (Shōwa 6) year, which contains a valuable photograph of the store. Logos often participated in sales events at department stores in Kobe, Osaka, and Tokyo, and was well-known and active nationwide."

大地靴店 神戸 から ドクトル・エフ・トラウツ *

大地靴店 神戸 から ドクトル・エフ・トラウツ

In 1933, a New Year's greeting card was sent from Daichi Kutsuten, a shoemaker in Kobe, to Dr. F. M. Trautz. While these cards may seem like a relic of the past, they continue to be exchanged today, maintaining a sense of tradition and warmth. However, the reverse side, often printed with a message, reveals its origin as a form of mass-produced business communication. 

1933年 三宅商店 京都 から トラウツ *

1933年 三宅商店 京都 から トラウツ

This card is from Miyake Shoten in Kyoto. Unfortunately, I could not find any information about this business. It is a generic card with a printed message of good wishes on the reverse side and an ink-stamped business name and address on the front.