Korin shiki Meiji moyo IWAYA, Sazanami [foreword by], Unso-do [edited] [Near Fine] [Hardcover]

An exquisite catalog by Unso-do of an exhibition and design competition at Mitsukoshi, the most famous department store in Tokyo. Mitsukoshi was the leading producer and distributor of the kimono in Japan since 1673. The first volume includes a short list of 42 Neo-Rinpa designs nominated for the award. In the foreword we find the curatorial explanation of the competition dedicated to Rinpa master Ogata Korin and its influence on the Art Nouveau and Secession art. The second volume is a catalog of 276 kimono designs exhibited in Mitsukoshi. The publication is extremely rare and represents a priceless example of the color woodblock printing in the late Meiji era, using golden and silver inks. Text in Japanese. 2 volumes complete. 37.3x25.3cm, 44 & 103 leaves. 1 vol: woodblock printed in color, golden, silver ink. 2 vol: monochrome collotype printing. Golden flecked flyleaves. Original silk cloth boards. Original silk title slips. Decorative silk thread knots and silk hanagire. Minor damages at the hinges. Slightly rubbed on the original slipcase, otherwise in fine condition.