Edo Design Sample Books - 2 volumes with 216 wonderful designs
[Japan] A very impressive pair of Japanese folding books each containing 108 colour, woodblock printed designs for what appears to be mostly kimono for men. Titled 'Edo Shumi Gara Iro Mihon' or 'Sample Book of Popular Edo Era Designs in Colour'. The range of designs is amazing and this is the first such pair with these designs that we have seen. The style of covers indicates the books are probably mid-Meiji era (c1890-1900).
Each volume with 53 designs on one side and 55 on the other (108 designs in each volume, so 216 designs in total).
Each 32.6 x 19.4 x 7cm.
In very good condition. Some designs with minor damage or small sections cut out. Some age wear and marks but overall very good. Previous owner's name (Moriizumi) and date (1934) written inside front cover of each volume. b36121746
