Meiji Edition "Tokyo Kibun: The Short Biography of Takahashi Doku-fu" 5 Volumes – Ukiyo-e Illustrated Book by Okamoto Kanzou and Utagawa Fusatane (Meiji 12, 1879)

This rare Meiji-period set of six volumes tells the compelling story of Takahashi Oden, the last woman to be executed by beheading in Japan. Published in 1879 (Meiji 12), this work is a captivating blend of historical narrative and ukiyo-e artistry. Printed on traditional washi paper using woodblock techniques, the set features hand-colored covers and intricate illustrations by Utagawa Fusatane, paired with the writing of Okamoto Kanzou. The volumes are compiled into three books—upper, middle, and lower—each with nine pages, showcasing the dramatic tale of Oden's life and fate. 

The set carries the marks of its age, including minor repairs, reassembled covers, and subtle wear to the corners, all of which enhance its historical authenticity. This collection stands as a vivid artifact of Meiji-era literature, offering a poignant glimpse into a significant moment in Japan’s cultural and judicial history.