This lot consists of three vivid woodcut views of Nikko, Japan, a mountain resort city in the Tochigi Prefecture of Japan which is approximately 90 miles north of Tokyo. The city itself grew around the temples of Rinno-ji and Chuzen-ji, which were established in the 8th century and are prominently shown at the center of each view. The first two were printed circa 1889 and come with their original decorative woodcut envelopes. The third view, circa 1901, is focused on the center of the city near the temples and is surrounded by 12 local scenes. These maps were most likely intended for tourists, as the Japanese National Railways began service to the city in 1890. A very unusual and attractive set of views.

A. [Untitled - with Envelope] (21.2 x 14.7").

B. [Untitled - with Envelope] (21.2 x 15.0").

C. [Untitled] (18.5 x 12.5").

References:

Condition: A

Maps are clean and bright with brilliant color. There are several binding holes in the top margin of the third map, away from the image. Envelopes have minor soil and one of them has a small hole away from the image.