Discover a rare Meiji-era Japanese woodblock-printed book, 二十四輩順拝図会 巻二 (Nijūshihai Junpai Zue – Volume 2), dedicated to the historic Buddhist pilgrimage routes across Echizen and Kaga provinces. This beautifully printed volume features detailed temple descriptions, pilgrimage narratives, and large folding landscape illustrations depicting sacred sites, mountains, and temple complexes.
Created as part of a multi-volume pilgrimage guide, this 19th-century woodblock book served as an educational and devotional tool for travellers visiting important temples associated with the 24 Buddhist patriarchs. The book preserves traditional calligraphy, copperplate-style woodblock illustrations, and rich textual explanations that reflect the spiritual culture of early modern Japan.
This example shows signs of age, including stains, paper wear, and worming, yet retains its historical charm and remains highly collectible for enthusiasts of Japanese Buddhism, Edo–Meiji printing, and antique Japanese books. A beautiful piece for collectors, museums, and lovers of classical Japanese art and religious history.
