Kanpan - Yochi Shiryaku [A Compilation of Geographical Knowledge].

First edition. A very good early impression. 9 volumes (of 13). Numerous woodblock maps, plates and illustrations, several engraved plates. Fukuruto-ji. Original covers with printed title-slips, some very occasional minor worming, generally a very good, clean set preserved in modern chitsu. Tokyo, Nakamura Kumajiro/ Kobayashi Shinbe, Meiji 3-Meiji 8 [i.e. 1870-

This richly illustrated world geography documents the speed with which Japan accumulated and disseminated knowledge about the outside world. Detailed information is provided on the different physiognomies, costumes and living conditions of the various people. Landscapes and views of important cities give a largely accurate picture of the living standards around the world. The first three volumes deal with the Far East (Japan, China, Central, and South-East Asia), volumes 4-7 with Europe, vols. 8 and 9 with Africa. The illustrations are taken from a wide variety of Western sources including Roberts' Holy Land; of particular interest are the varying printing processes involved in this publication, with the occasional use of copper plates from vol. 4 onwards. A further four volumes were published between 1877 and 1880, after the death of the author Uchida Masao (1838-1876). Rare. Only one complete set in OCLC.

Stock Code: 189204