christian-wanted-notice

A WANTED NOTICE FOR CHRISTIANS - JAPAN, 1711.

This is a Kirishitan Kosatsu, an official public notice offering a substantial cash reward for the identification and capture of Christians converts in early 18th century Japan, a time of brutal state-persecution of the faith.

The sign reads

“Regulation. If anyone knows of Christian disciples, already banned, please report to the Government.
Rewards are as below:

Missionary: 500 silver coins.
Priests: 300 silver coins.
Christian disciples: 300 silver coins.
Anyone knowingly living with a Christian: 100 silver coins.
If a family member identifies a Christian within his family, the reward is 500 silver coins.
Anyone identified as having hidden a Christian will bear responsibility along with his landlord. May 1711.”