An authentic Meiji 8 (1875) historical woodblock-printed book from the celebrated series Meiji Taiheiki (明治太平記), authored by Murai Gensai (村井弦齋) and illustrated by Sensai Eitaku (鮮齋永濯) — two key figures in Japan’s early modern literary and artistic transition.
Published by Enjudō (延壽堂) in Tokyo under official license (“官許”), this Volume 3, Part 2 (三編 下) concludes the account of the Boshin War’s northern campaigns, chronicling the decisive battles around Sendai, Aizu, and Hirosaki, and the fall of the remaining Tokugawa loyalists.
The volume features a dramatic double-page woodblock illustration of a battlefield scene — Imperial troops advancing under cannon fire and smoke — masterfully combining ukiyo-e style linework with early Meiji realism.
Printed on handmade washi paper with fukurotoji (stab binding), this book retains its original green embossed cover and exhibits crisp, well-preserved text blocks.
As part of a state-endorsed chronicle series, Meiji Taiheiki served both as a historical record and as patriotic literature celebrating Japan’s transformation from feudal rule to modern nationhood. A valuable piece for collectors of samurai-era history, Meiji Restoration literature, and antique Japanese woodblock books.
