The History of the Empire of Japan

Tokyo: Dai Nippon Tosho Kabushiki Kwaisha, 1893. 8vo (6 ½ × 9 ½ in; 17 × 24 cm). Gray silk boards, beveled edges; front cover titled in Japanese & English in black with gilt cloud ornament; rear cover blind-stamped; silk spine with bird & star design; decorative eps; 4 ornamental string ties (very rare to still be present). Illustrated with 1 folding map, 2 plans, 5 double-page collotype plates. (K. Ogawa), 5 double-page colored woodblock plates., 18 double-page & 11 single-page black and white woodblock plates. 428 pp.

An authoritative late 19th-century history of Japan, compiled under the auspices of an Imperial commission and published as an official presentation volume for the Japanese Section at the World’s Columbian Exposition, Chicago, 1893, intended to introduce international visitors to Japan’s history and culture.

The collotype plates were executed by K. Ogawa (1860–1929), Japan’s foremost master of photographic reproduction, renowned for his exquisite printing and pioneering role in introducing modern photographic techniques to Japan.

No internal markings. Text clean. The boards are chipped in a few places on the edges, but otherwise this is the nicest copy we've ever seen for sale. Very Good. Item #139

Price: $950.00