Japan.- Karuta cards of the Uta-garuta type, Meji era c. 1912

Japan.- Karuta cards of the Uta-garuta type, two sets off 99 pictorial and scripted cards in a wooden lift-top box with floral motif and metal tab, manufactures label in Japanese adhered to the base, Meji era, c. 1912. *** Karuta, or Japanese playing cards were introduced into Japan by Portuguese sailors in the 16th century and saw many variations on there use in game playing. This version, Uta-garuta or "Poetry cards", involves a participant reading from the poetry deck with players vying to be the first to match lines from the torifuda or grabbing deck. Traditionally played on New Year.

Estimate:£200

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