岡本勘造/歌川房種 - 『其の名も高橋毒婦の小伝 東京奇聞』2編上中下、全3冊揃 - 1879

Rare Complete Set of 3 Volumes – “Sono Na mo Takahashi Dokujo no Koden: Tokyo Kibun” (1879)
Original Japanese Woodblock-Printed Kusazōshi (Illustrated Popular Fiction) – Complete Upper, Middle & Lower Volumes

Offered here is an exceptionally rare complete set of three volumes (Jō, Chū, Ge) of “Sono Na mo Takahashi Dokujo no Koden: Tokyo Kibun”, published in Meiji 12 (1879).

This work belongs to the fascinating world of Meiji-period Kusazōshi, the illustrated popular literature that bridged the transition from Edo-period storytelling to modern Japanese publishing. Complete surviving examples are increasingly difficult to find, especially in matching sets of all three volumes.

The story is based on the sensationalized account of Takahashi Oden, one of the most notorious female criminals of early Meiji Japan. Her life and crimes inspired numerous literary and theatrical works, making her a legendary figure in Japanese popular culture. Publications related to Takahashi Oden are highly sought after today as important documents of Meiji-era social history, crime literature, and visual culture.

A particular highlight of this set is the abundance of finely executed woodblock illustrations by the respected artist Ōsai Fusatane (Sakurazai Fusatane / 櫻斎房種). The volumes contain numerous vividly colored ukiyo-e style illustrations that capture dramatic scenes with remarkable energy and detail. These illustrations provide an invaluable visual record of the changing tastes and aesthetics of early Meiji Japan.

Features
Original Japanese woodblock-printed book
Published in 1879 (Meiji 12)
Complete set of 3 volumes (Upper, Middle, Lower)
Title: Sono Na mo Takahashi Dokujo no Koden: Tokyo Kibun
Richly illustrated throughout
Numerous original ukiyo-e woodblock prints by Ōsai Fusatane
Important example of Meiji-period popular literature and publishing
Highly desirable for collectors of ukiyo-e, kusazōshi, Japanese books, and Meiji cultural history
Condition

The set is in fair to generally good antique condition for its age. Expected wear from handling and age is present, including rubbing, creasing, edge wear, stains, foxing, and signs of use consistent with nineteenth-century Japanese paper books. The volumes remain complete and retain strong visual appeal, particularly in the woodblock illustrations.

A remarkably scarce and historically significant complete kusazōshi set that rarely appears on the international market.
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