Discover a beautifully preserved example of Meiji-era Japanese illustrated books with 風流見物 (Fūryū Kenbutsu), originally published in 1885 (Meiji 18). This charming volume captures the lively world of festival scenes, street entertainers, and folk characters, all reimagined through humorous Edo-style illustrations. Printed on traditional washi paper, it reflects the transitional art culture of early modern Japan.
Inside, the book presents a series of detailed ukiyo-e style drawings populated by anthropomorphic kitsune (foxes) dressed as samurai, merchants, performers, and townspeople. These scenes parody everyday life and public festivities, blending satire with elegant linework typical of kibyōshi-influenced picture books. Each page is filled with motion, dialogue, and expressive characters, offering a vivid window into Japanese popular culture during the late 19th century.
Produced by the Tokyo publisher Kobayashi Tetsujirō and printed on December 4th, 1885, this volume is a genuine piece of Meiji-period printing history. Books of this type were often enjoyed as light entertainment, making surviving examples increasingly scarce today—especially in such complete, clean condition.
This work is ideal for collectors of Japanese antiques, ukiyo-e art, Meiji prints, and folklore-inspired books, as well as anyone fascinated by early Japanese visual storytelling. A rare opportunity to own an authentic artifact that bridges the elegance of Edo aesthetics with the humor of Meiji popular culture.
