Item Description This is the first volume (Upper Volume) of "Sanzeai Nishiki Bunsho" (Three Lives' Brocade Story), Volume 2 series, a rare Kusazoshi illustrated book published during the Ansei period of the late Edo period (1858). Written by Ryusuitei Tanekiyo and illustrated by the renowned ukiyo-e artists Nidai Kunisada (Second Generation Kunisada) and Utagawa Kunisato, this work represents a fascinating example of Edo period popular literature and art. Please note: This listing is for the Upper Volume only. This is part 1 of a 2-volume set. Kusazoshi were illustrated storybooks that enjoyed immense popularity among Edo townspeople, combining engaging narratives with beautiful woodblock print illustrations. The artwork in this volume was created by Nidai Kunisada, a prominent figure in the Utagawa school who was a pupil and son-in-law of the first Kunisada (later known as third Toyokuni), and Utagawa Kunisato, another skilled artist of the same school. The text was written by Ryusuitei Tanekiyo, a prolific gesaku author known for his theatrical adaptations and serialized works. The publication bears the mark of Tsujiokaya Bunsuke, a well-known Edo period publisher. This volume contains approximately 10 pages and features vibrant illustrations depicting kabuki theater scenes and dramatic narratives typical of the period. The book showcases the sophisticated printing techniques and artistic sensibilities of late Edo period popular culture, making it a valuable resource for researchers of Japanese literature, art history, and theatrical traditions. This volume comes from a collection preserved through generations and offers a window into the entertainment and visual culture of 19th century Japan. Size Height: 17.5 cm Width: 11.5 cm Weight 15 g Condition The book shows age-appropriate wear consistent with items from the Ansei period (1858). There is minor rubbing at the bottom edges, but overall the condition is good with minimal impact on readability. Artist Profile Nidai Kunisada (Utagawa Kunisada II, 1823-1880) Nidai Kunisada was the second generation to bear the Kunisada name. Born as the third Utagawa Kunimasa, he entered the studio of the first Kunisada and in 1852 married Kunisada's eldest daughter, subsequently inheriting the Kunisada name. He later proclaimed himself the third Toyokuni in 1870, though he was technically the fourth. As a leading ukiyo-e artist of the late Edo and early Meiji periods, he continued the tradition of actor prints and beautiful women portraits established by his master. Utagawa Kunisato (Unknown-1858) Utagawa Kunisato was a pupil of the third Toyokuni (first Kunisada). His secular name was Masajiro, and he used various art names including Tatekawasai and Ichijusai. Born in Edo's Honjo Tatekawa district to a confectioner's family, he later moved to Owarimachi. Active from the Kaei to Ansei periods, he specialized in landscape prints, genre scenes, toy prints, sumo prints, and illustrations for serialized novels. Ryusuitei Tanekiyo (1823-1907) Ryusuitei Tanekiyo was a prominent gesaku author of the late Edo through Meiji periods. Born in Hida Takayama, he became a Buddhist priest before turning to theater and literature. He studied under the playwright Kawatake Mokuami and later became a disciple of the gesaku writer Ryukatei Tanekazu. He gained popularity through his "shohonutushi" works - illustrated books based on kabuki performances. He contributed to major serialized works and continued writing well into the Meiji era. NOTICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.