Japan - World; Yubunkan (雄文館) - Revised Latest World Map (改造 最新世界全図) - 1932

This large and impressive Japanese wall map titled “Revised Latest World Map (改造 最新世界全図)” was published by Yubunkan Publishing (雄文館) and revised on July 20, Showa 7 (1932).

The map presents a detailed global view of the world during the interwar period between World War I (1914–1918) and World War II (1939–1945). It captures a fascinating geopolitical moment when the global order was rapidly shifting. Borders, colonial territories, and spheres of influence visible on this map reflect the political geography of the early 1930s, when European colonial empires still dominated large parts of Africa and Asia.

Printed in color, the map clearly differentiates nations and territories with soft pastel tones typical of early twentieth-century cartography. Major transportation routes, sea lanes, and political boundaries are carefully indicated, illustrating the global network of trade and imperial connections that shaped international relations before the Second World War.

A particularly interesting feature of this map is the series of inset maps showing detailed plans of major world cities, including global centers of commerce and power. These city plans illustrate urban layouts and transportation networks, providing insight into how important metropolitan areas were organized during the early modern period of global industrialization.

The map also reflects the geopolitical tension of the time. Japan appears highlighted in East Asia during a period when the country was expanding its regional influence, and the territorial divisions across Europe and Asia still reflect the aftermath of World War I. As such, the map serves as a compelling historical document illustrating the fragile international order that existed shortly before the outbreak of the Second World War.

With its large format and richly detailed cartography, this piece is not only a valuable historical document but also a striking decorative map suitable for collectors of historical cartography, pre-World War II maps, and Japanese educational materials from the early Showa era.

The sheet shows age-related wear consistent with its age, including folds from original storage and some tears visible in the photographs, which add to the authentic character of this historical piece.

Artist / Publisher Information
Yubunkan (雄文館) was a Japanese publishing house active in the late Meiji, Taisho, and early Showa periods. The company produced educational materials, atlases, and geographic publications widely used in schools and academic settings throughout Japan.

During the early twentieth century, Japanese publishers played an important role in introducing modern cartographic knowledge and global awareness to the public. Wall maps such as this one were commonly used in classrooms to teach world geography and international politics.

Publications from this period are particularly valuable today because they reflect how Japan viewed the world during a time of rapid geopolitical change and modernization.

Size
Approximately: 110 × 79 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.

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