A fascinating antique Japanese woodblock-printed book from the Edo–Meiji transition period, titled 御代記図繪 (Godaiki Zue, “Illustrated Chronicle of Imperial Eras”) – Volume 5.
This fifth volume features detailed woodblock illustrations of imperial courtiers, samurai, monks, and legendary events from Japan’s classical and medieval past.
Each page is finely printed on handmade washi paper, combining Buddhist moral reflection with historical narrative — a hallmark of late Edo religious publishing.
Published by Heian Shishodō (平安四書堂) in Kyoto, this book exemplifies the elegant craftsmanship of 19th-century Japanese printing, when religion, history, and art merged into a single visual tradition.
Inside, collectors will discover:
Intricate black-line woodblock illustrations of samurai and monks
Narrative calligraphy in classical Japanese script
Architectural and landscape scenes of temples and shrines
Historical continuity between imperial lineage and Buddhist virtue
This rare example of Godaiki Zue represents both a religious manuscript and historical chronicle, reflecting the spiritual values and artistic mastery of the Meiji Restoration era.
Title: 御代記図繪 巻之五 (Godaiki Zue – Volume 5)
Translation: Illustrated Chronicle of Imperial Eras
Publisher: 平安四書堂 (Heian Shishodō, Kyoto)
Date: Late Edo – Early Meiji (circa 1850–1880)
Technique: Woodblock printing on handmade washi paper
Binding: Fukurotoji (traditional Japanese stitched binding)
Language: Classical Japanese
Provenance: From a Buddhist-historical printing series honoring Shinran Shōnin (親鸞聖人)
