Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

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One volume complete, Ehon tebikigusa, “A Model Book of Plants.” Published by Iseya Rihei, 1849. Signed on inside of front cover Ichiryusai Hiroshige hitsu with three page preface signed Ryukatei Tanekazu (1807-1858) plus one page introduction by Hiroshige on how he was asked to design a book as a guide to drawing for children. (See Strange, The Colour Prints of Hiroshige, Cassell, 1925, p. 112-114 for a full translation.) Thirty-five pages of flowers, grasses and fish plus two page view of Mt. Fuji and last page signed Ichiryusai. This is the rare first edition: It was republished by Shojuya Shoshichi, lacking the introduction. Original embossed grey covers and blue title slip.

Extremely fine impressions. Some slight edge wormage at end, otherwise very good condition.

Status: Sold