Manuscript on paper, illustrated with 21 fine pen & ink drawings. 35 folding leaves. 8vo...
[Probably Kyoto: 1862 or shortly thereafter].
The opening of Japan by Perry caused tremendous political and economic turmoil and violence within the hitherto relatively peaceful country. The country was divided into two groups: the first supported the shogun and his cooperation with the Western nations and the second considered these changes a betrayal of traditional Japanese values and called for the emperor to unify the country.
Political assassinations became common on the streets of Kyoto. This manuscript describes and depicts a series of victims of assassination, most of whom were supporters of the shogun. They include Seiichiro Homma, Genba Ugo... More