Nansō Satomi Hakkenden (南總里見八犬傳) is one of the great masterpieces of Edo-period literature, written by Kyokutei Bakin (曲亭馬琴, 1767–1848) and illustrated by Utagawa Yoshimune (歌川重信).
This volume, 巻八 (Volume 8), belongs to a monumental 106-volume saga serialized from 1814 to 1842, blending samurai adventure, Confucian morality, and spiritual symbolism.
Printed in beautiful black woodblock characters on handmade mulberry paper, this edition preserves detailed illustrations of warriors, battles, and domestic scenes. The narrative continues the tale of the Eight Dog Warriors (八犬士)—heroes born from the union of loyalty, courage, and karmic destiny.
Bound in the fukuro-toji (bound-pocket) style with a marbled paper cover, this antique volume is an authentic artifact of early 19th-century Japanese publishing.
It embodies the craftsmanship and storytelling that shaped Japanese popular fiction and later inspired kabuki theatre, ukiyo-e prints, and modern manga adaptations.
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Title: 南總里見八犬傳 八 (Nansō Satomi Hakkenden, Vol. 8)
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Author: 曲亭馬琴 (Kyokutei Bakin)
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Illustrator: 柳川重信 (Utagawa Yoshimune)
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Period: Edo Period, early 19th century (c. 1820s–1840s)
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Technique: Woodblock print on handmade washi paper
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Binding: Fukuro-toji (Japanese side-stitch binding)
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Language: Classical Japanese
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Origin: Japan
Hakkenden is a monumental work of Edo-period moral fiction (gesaku literature), symbolizing the Eight Virtues of Confucianism—benevolence, justice, courtesy, wisdom, loyalty, faith, filial piety, and obedience.
It remains a cornerstone of Japanese literary heritage, influencing countless artists and storytellers.
