As contemporary as this graphic art form may appear to readers outside of Japan, manga has deep roots in Japanese culture, drawing on centuries-old artistic traditions. Traces can be found in seventh-century temple paintings, folding screens decorated with comic characters, and painted medieval emakimono scrolls. This volume spans the history of manga in all its splendor and diversity. Each period is covered in detail by author Brigitte Koyama-Richard and illustrated with drawings and prints. One Thousand Years of Manga is both an informative account of the genesis of the form and a visual delight.