This rare Nine Stars Almanac from Meiji 36 (1903) is an antique Japanese booklet used for astrology and divination. The content focuses on interpreting the "Nine Stars" system, a traditional form of Japanese astrology often utilized to predict fortune and compatibility based on celestial movements. The booklet contains 17 folded sheets of handmade washi paper bound with thread, though some pages have come loose over time. Despite its age, it shows only minor deterioration, with no significant tears or stains, though fine wear is present.
Produced during the Meiji era, a period of modernization in Japan, this almanac exemplifies how traditional practices like divination were preserved even as Western influences began to permeate Japanese culture. Originating from a time when the Japanese calendar system was transitioning from lunar to solar-based formats, such artifacts represent a fascinating cultural blend of old and new.
This booklet would have been a common household tool, providing guidance on auspicious dates and astrological readings. Its craftsmanship and design reflect the Meiji era's commitment to preserving traditional Japanese aesthetics while adapting to the demands of a rapidly modernizing society
