Very good condition overall. Both cover pages are in excellent condition with only very minor friction and insect damage. All pages have been reinforced with a hard paper backing for preservation. Cover colors remain vivid, and the inner pages retain extremely sharp black linework.
This pair of Edo-period illustrated fiction books from the 1860s, by Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III), is titled Mirror of Earthquakes (地震鏡). The series presents dramatized accounts of real samurai duels, accompanied by poetic calligraphy, blending historical narrative with literary and visual artistry.
A notable feature of this set is the frequent use of large illustrations spanning two pages, an uncommon and highly desirable characteristic in books of this type. These expansive compositions enhance the drama and visual storytelling, setting this work apart from more typical formats.
Printed using traditional woodblock techniques, the books showcase Kunisada’s refined style and the craftsmanship of late Edo-period publishing.
A rare and visually striking set, ideal for collectors of ukiyo-e books, samurai narratives, and unusual illustrated formats.
