Good condition overall with no noticeable stains or insect damage. Slight friction wear is present along the edges, but the image area remains unaffected and well-preserved.
This Meiji-era ukiyo-e woodblock triptych by Toyohara Chikanobu, created circa 1894–1895 (Meiji 27–28), depicts Emperor Meiji on horseback in formal Western-style military uniform, accompanied by an escort of guards.
The scene presents a ceremonial procession passing through a fortified gate, likely representing Tokyo near the Imperial Palace. The composition reflects the visual language of imperial imagery (gyōkō-zu), emphasizing authority, modernization, and national identity during Japan’s rapid transformation in the late 19th century.
Chikanobu, known for his depictions of court life and modernization themes, combines traditional woodblock techniques with contemporary subject matter. The Western-style uniforms and organized cavalry highlight Japan’s emergence as a modern military power while retaining elements of classical composition.
A well-preserved and historically representative example of Meiji-period imperial imagery, suitable for collectors of ukiyo-e, military history, and modernization-era prints.
