This rare Japanese woodblock-printed book is an Edo-period illustrated historical chronicle titled Ehon Ōnin-ki (繪本應仁記), an illustrated narrative recounting the events of the Ōnin War (1467–1477) — the devastating civil conflict that marked the beginning of Japan’s Sengoku (Warring States) period.
Printed in traditional fukuro-toji binding, the volume features fine monochrome woodblock illustrations depicting court nobles, warriors, temples, and architectural interiors, alongside dense kanbun-style historical text. The illustrations serve both narrative and didactic purposes, visually guiding the reader through key episodes of political intrigue, warfare, and ritual life during the late Muromachi period.
This copy corresponds to “Shohen, Volume 2” (初編 巻之貳), indicating it was part of a multi-volume series. Works under the Ehon (“illustrated book”) genre were especially popular in the Edo period, combining scholarship with visual storytelling for an educated readership.
Historical & Cultural Significance
Chronicles the Ōnin War, a pivotal turning point in Japanese history
Represents Edo-period historiography, blending moral interpretation with visual narrative
Valuable reference for researchers of samurai culture, political history, and woodblock printing
Physical Description
Original Edo-period woodblock printing
Illustrated pages with detailed interior and architectural scenes
Hand-bound Japanese fukuro-toji format
Original patterned paper covers, heavily worn
Visible age wear, losses, repairs, and paper fragility consistent with early printed books
