“Shin Gaikoku Chizu” (New Foreign Maps)『新外国地図』 - 1937

This volume is a genuine 1937 (Showa 12) period edition of “Shin Gaikoku Chizu” (New Foreign Maps) 『新外国地図』by Reisa Shimoda, published in Tokyo during the pre-war era by the distinguished publisher Fuzanbo.

It is not a later reproduction or facsimile, but an authentic contemporary printing preserved in its original binding. Produced on the eve of World War II, this atlas reflects the geopolitical understanding and academic worldview of Japan in the late 1930s. Such pre-WWII Japanese atlases rarely appear in complete and well-preserved condition, making this example particularly desirable for collectors of historical cartography and East Asian printed heritage.

Bound in a dark embossed hardcover featuring a gilt globe motif, the book conveys the dignified academic aesthetic typical of pre-war Japanese educational publications. The typography, layout, and printing quality are characteristic of high-standard scholarly works of the early Showa period.

The volume contains approximately 120 pages of detailed maps and geographical charts. It covers Asia, Europe, Africa, North and South America, Oceania, and the polar regions. In addition to regional maps, it includes thematic charts illustrating climate zones, ocean currents, population distribution, industries, and political divisions.

Several beautifully printed double-page color maps present hemispheres and global projections with remarkable clarity and refined period cartographic design. The geopolitical boundaries depicted represent the world as understood in 1937 (Showa 12), offering valuable historical insight into pre-war territorial perspectives.

The extensive index of international place names, rendered in Japanese transcription, further enhances its academic and documentary value.

Condition is consistent with age (approximately 90 years old). The hardcover shows minor edge wear and light rubbing at the corners. Pages exhibit gentle toning. There is a small tear visible on one page, but it does not significantly affect the integrity of the volume. Overall, the maps remain vivid and well-preserved.

This atlas stands not only as a functional geographical reference, but also as a historical artifact embodying Japan’s scholarly and global outlook during the early Showa era.

Author / Publisher Information
Reisa Shimoda (下田礼佐)
Reisa Shimoda was a Japanese geographer active in the early Showa period. Holding the academic title of Bungakushi (Bachelor of Literature), he contributed to geographical education through systematic and detailed atlas publications intended for institutional and academic use.

Fuzanbo (冨山房), Tokyo
Fuzanbo was a respected Tokyo-based publishing house active from the Meiji through Showa periods. Known for producing scholarly works, dictionaries, and educational materials, the company maintained high printing standards and durable bindings, as exemplified by this volume.

Size
Approximately H22.5 × W15.5 × D1 cm
Approx. 120 pages

Condition: (Please refer to the photos for details)
- This is a vintage / pre-owned item.
- Due to age and previous use, there may be signs of wear such as scratches, stains, discoloration, or creases.
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Shipping
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