Densho of Japan's classical warrior traditions are attracting the attention of an increasing number of Western exponents, researchers, and collectors. For some martial arts exponents, densho are sought after relics that can prove the legitimacy of the traditions (ryuha) they are studying. More than from actually reading these often intriguing manuscripts, practitioners of a tradition get satisfaction out of the fact that they can physically hole a piece representing a part of their school's history in their own hands.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Serge Mol is one of the foremost Western authorities in the field of Japan's traditional martial arts. He started his martial arts training some thirty years ago and presently holds the ranks of menkyo and menkyo kaiden in a number of classical schools. His earlier publications Classical Fighting Arts of Japan: A Complete Guide to Kory Jujutsu and Classical Weaponry of Japan: Special Weapons and Tactics ot the Martial Arts -both best sellers-- have set completely new standards in their genre

Mol lived in Japan for several years, devoting most of his time to training and research. Having lived in Japan as a member of a traditional Kyoto family of samurai origin has provided him with a unique perspective on the subject. Additionally Mol has an extensive collection of Edo period documents about martial arts, weaponry and samurai and ninja history and culture.

236 pages