MURAMASA BLADE: A STORY OF FEUDALISM IN OLD JAPAN

1887. Item #87293

WERTHEIMBER, Louis. A MURAMASA BLADE: A STORY OF FEUDALISM IN OLD JAPAN. Boston: Ticknor and Company, 1887. First edition. Illustrated throughout with 5 copper engravings by Nakamura Munehiro and 19 full-page wood engravings, along with many smaller wood-engraved text illustrations, by Shirayama Dani. xvi, 188 pp. Large octavo bound in maroon chrysanthemum-patterened silk brocade over padded boards, with gilt title and vignette (a short sword or dagger) on upper board and title on spine, patterned endpapers, t.e.g. Laid-in is a printed memorandum from the publisher (2 1/2 by 16 in.) that sets forth "certain facts concerning the mechanical make-up and literary history of the of the book," along with biographical information about the author, as "an assistance to the literary editor or reviewer." Cloth has darkened slightly on upper board and spine; the gilt lettering on spine has dulled and flaked a bit; and the front hinge shows a bit of wear. Copies in the silk binding are scarce and are often quite worn when found. However, this is an unusual copy, being fresh and clean internally, with a rare publisher's memorandum laid-in, in a sound and attractive binding. Near fine.

Price: $650.00

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