Catalog Archive
Auction 196, Lot 633

"The Lure of Japan", Anon.

Subject: Japan

Period: 1950 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Printed Color

Size:
28.5 x 20.5 inches
72.4 x 52.1 cm
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This rare and stunning post-war pictorial map captures the beauty and culture of Japan. The landscape is dense with illustrations, including several sites of interest such as Mt. Fuji, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nikko Toshogu, Himeji Castle, and the island shrine of Itsukushima. Other drawings include cherry blossoms in bloom, samurai in battle, a giant Buddha, and various crops, natural resources, and wildlife. The atomic bomb explosions at Hiroshima and Nagasaki are noted. A key identifies railroads, national bus lines, national parks, mines, hot springs, lighthouses, shrines, churches, ancient battle fields, and regional transport offices. Insets at top left detail the islands of Kyushu and Hokkaido. Another inset at bottom right shows the islands in simple outline. Verso features informative English text on the islands. Self-folding, with an alternative title on cover: Beautiful Picture Map of Japan. No artist or publisher credited.

References:

Condition: B+

Issued folding with a few tiny splits at the fold junctions. A 1" separation at left and 1.5" separation and associated tear at right have been closed on verso with archival tape. There are a couple small, light stains at right.

Estimate: $550 - $700

Sold for: $275

Closed on 2/7/2024

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