A. Japan - A Cartographic Vision - European Printed Maps from the Early 16th to the 19th Century, by Lutz Walter, published 1994 (9.8 x 12.5"). This terrific reference focuses on the changes in the way Japan was seen by Western explorers and cartographers, from the speculative and incorrect depictions of the early sixteenth century to the first accurate maps published in the mid-nineteenth century. It includes eleven essays, each illustrated with portraits, drawings, contemporary views, and maps. The plates are followed by a catalogue of 128 items, with detailed notes on the plates. Edited by Lutz Walter on behalf of the German East-Asiatic Society, on the occasion of its 120th anniversary. 232 pages with 265 illustrations, 182 in color. Hardbound in red cloth with an illustrated dust jacket. Condition: Slight sunning along the spine of the dust jacket, otherwise like new. (A)

B. Hiroshige - The 53 Stations of the Tokaido, by Muneshige Narazaki, published 1976 (7.3 x 10.1"). This book reproduces the Hiroshige's travel prints chronicling the Tokaido, the Japanese highway that connected the emperor's capital in Kyoto with Edo (present-day Tokyo). The book is part of the Masterworks of Ukiyo-e series, which celebrates the beautiful and iconic "pictures of the floating world." Hiroshige was considered the last great master of this uniquely Japanese tradition. His work is represented here in 72 color illustrations. Soft illustrated covers, 92 pp. Condition: Text is very good with minor toning along the edges of the pages. Minor shelf wear. Front inner flap is clipped. (B+)

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See description above.