An exquisite Edo-period woodblock-printed book (絵本 / ehon) featuring dramatic samurai and courtesan scenes, attributed to Utagawa Kuniteru (国輝画) of the famous Utagawa school. This book was likely printed around c.1850 (late Edo period) and contains a blend of woodblock illustrations and narrative text in kuzushiji script, characteristic of kibyōshi or yomihon publications of the era.
The vividly hand-colored cover depicts an elegant courtesan with attendants, while the interior features black-and-white ukiyo-e style prints — showing samurai duels, romantic encounters, and poetic landscapes. Printed on handmade washi paper and bound in traditional fukurotoji (stitched pouch-binding) style.
This work captures the spirit of Edo popular culture, storytelling, and fine craftsmanship.
Period: Late Edo (ca. 1840–1860)
Artist: Attributed to Utagawa Kuniteru (国輝画)
Publisher: Likely Edo (Tokyo) publishing house
Technique: Woodblock print on handmade washi paper
Format:Fukurotoji binding, original color cover, monochrome interior
Content: Illustrated samurai tales, geisha and kabuki-inspired scenes
During Japan’s Edo period, illustrated storybooks (ehon, yomihon, and kibyōshi) flourished as forms of popular entertainment — the forerunners of modern manga. Artists like Utagawa Kuniteru were central figures in translating kabuki drama and urban romance into visual narrative form. Such books were prized both for their artistry and their witty, dramatic storytelling.
