This is an original antique Japanese geopolitical map titled “Jiji Shimpō – European War Situation Map”, published in August, Taishō 3 (1914, Western calendar) by Jiji Shimpōsha, at the very outbreak of World War I. What makes this map particularly compelling is that it presents World War I from a Japanese perspective at the exact moment the conflict began. Rather than focusing solely on Europe, the map adopts a global viewpoint, reflecting how Japan—an emerging world power in the early 20th century—understood and interpreted the war’s international significance. The main section depicts Europe in full detail, with clearly hand-colored national borders that illustrate the political divisions and strategic regions involved in the conflict. In addition, the map includes a world overview map, situating the European war within a truly global context. Most notably, it also features a “Far East Current Situation Map” (Kyokutō Genseizu), highlighting East Asia, China, Korea, and Japan, and emphasizing the strategic importance of the Asia-Pacific region as seen from Japan. Printed using early modern lithographic techniques on Japanese paper, the map demonstrates a high level of cartographic clarity and visual balance. The combination of Europe, the world overview, and the Far East makes this piece far more than a regional war map—it is a visual statement of how Japan viewed the shifting global order in 1914. The map shows folds, age-related toning, small stains, and minor paper wear, all consistent with an authentic item over 110 years old. These signs of age reinforce its character as a genuine historical document from the dawn of the modern geopolitical era. This map is highly appealing to collectors of World War I history, antique world maps, Japanese modern history, and geopolitical visual culture, offering a rare insight into how Japan perceived the world at a pivotal historical turning point. Artist / Publisher Information Publisher: Jiji Shimpōsha (時事新報社) Founded in 1882 by Fukuzawa Yukichi, Jiji Shimpō was one of Japan’s most influential modern media institutions. It played a crucial role in shaping Japanese understanding of international politics and global affairs during the Meiji and Taishō periods. This map exemplifies the publisher’s commitment to presenting global events through a distinctly Japanese analytical lens at the start of World War I. Size: Approx. H 55 × W 78 cm Condition: (Please see the photos) - It is in vintage condition. Reasonable (traces of wear, damages on the maps) - Due to aging, there may be some scratches, stains or dirt. - Please note that the actual impression may differ depending on the lighting conditions when taking photos. Shipping The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by mainly Japan Post or DHL depend on the situation. It will be shipped from Japan, so it takes about 2-3 weeks to receive normally. Please understand that we use recycled materials (cardboard, old newspapers, etc.) as much as possible for packaging materials in order to protect the environment. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customs or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer their contact. If you don't, the parcel will be returned to us and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. Thank you for your cooperation.