Original and rare, Taisho Period Japanese Yoshitoshi Woodblock Print Picture Book (Ehon).
Artist:  YOSHITOSHI  Tsukioka (1839 -1892)
Editor:  Ogawa Enson 
Producer:  Fuzoku Emaki Zuga Kankokai Nishikiebu 
Date & Publishing Company:  Tokyo, Yoshikawa Kobunkan, Taisho Period, 6th year (1917) 
1st Edition
Title:  Kinsei kyogi den (Stories of chivalry in recent times - these are woodblock print re-strikes after his famous series of the Edo Period.  

Description: 100% Japanese genuine & authentic woodblock print picture book from the Taisho Period.  Very good colors and impressions.  LOADED with great samurai/ruffian woodblock print artwork!  This famous Yoshitoshi series is said to be very influential on the Yakuza (Japanese mafia), due to the violent nature of the characters depicted and their individual stories.  Also influenced the Zatoichi movie series.  In brief, it's about the turf wars waged between two Edo Period bosses during the Tenpo era (1830-1844), the chivalrous gambler, Sukegoro of Iioka in Shimosa, and Shigezo of Sasagawa.
 
There are woodblock print pictures on every second page.  36 pictures in all.  Condition is great with minimal wear!  Please see and judge from photos.
 
Size of woodblock print picture book (closed):  24.5 cm x 16.8 cm x 1.8 cm thick
 
This book is a classic for any Yoshitoshi fan or simply a rough & bloody samurai woodblock print artwork enthusiast!