Ehon Hokōki (絵本補公記), Volume 4 – Edo-Period Illustrated Chronicle
A superb Edo-era woodblock-printed book from the famous historical series Ehon Hokōki — a richly illustrated chronicle recounting the life and achievements of Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537–1598), one of Japan’s most celebrated military leaders.
This fourth volume presents detailed episodes of Hideyoshi’s rise in the imperial court, political alliances, and early campaigns. Each page combines elegant kanbun-style prose with exquisite ukiyo-e woodblock illustrations, portraying samurai, courtiers, and palace interiors in fine linework and harmonious composition.
Printed circa mid-19th century (late Edo period) by Kanaya Gohei (金屋五兵衛) in Kyoto, the book showcases the refined craft of Edo-period publishing:
soft handmade washi paper, fukuro-toji stitched binding, and a green embossed cover featuring wave and chrysanthemum motifs.
A remarkable object of cultural heritage — ideal for collectors of antique Japanese books, samurai history, or woodblock-print art.
Title: 絵本補公記 巻之四 (Ehon Hokōki – Volume 4)
Translation: Illustrated Chronicle of Toyotomi Hideyoshi
Period: Late Edo (early–mid 19th century)
Publisher: 金屋五兵衛 (Kanaya Gohei, Kyoto)
Technique: Woodblock printing on handmade washi
Binding: Fukuro-toji (traditional Japanese stitched)
Content: Illustrated narratives of samurai campaigns and imperial court scenes
Language: Classical Japanese
The Ehon Hokōki series is an artistic tribute to Hideyoshi’s life — merging historical chronicle and pictorial storytelling.
Volumes like this reveal Japan’s fascination with its feudal past and the Edo era’s dedication to preserving national legend through print.
An outstanding example of Edo-period book artistry suitable for museum display or refined private collections.
