Description

A massive Japanese commercial reference from the early 1900s. Approximately 2,000 pages. Text primarily in Japanese, other than the 18-page bilingual (Japanese/English) index and an intriguing bilingual fold-out sample of various contemporary export documents. Two items laid inside front board include a double-sided bilingual glossary of commonly used trade terms and a wonderful 22" wide by 16" high colour map of the world with trade routes to/from Japan indicated in red. Most text on the map is Japanese with some place names in both English and Japanese. Please note that library name is stamped through the blank upper right corner of the map. Elaborately gilt-decorated backstrip with title in Japanese and English bears considerable wear but is still handsome and, dare we say, mysterious. Per a handwritten inscription inside back board, this copy was presented to representatives of the Seattle Chamber of Commerce in Tokyo on 24 October, 1908 by Mr. Shonojo Moriyama, Proprietor of the Dobun_____. Edges adorned with partially-faded marbling. Usual library markings. Above-average wear. Binding intact. A marvelously unique item. Book