1891 Meiji Era Imperial Portrait Lithograph in Frame Emperor Meiji, Empress For Sale

This is an original Meiji-era lithograph (stone print) titled

“Teikoku Kiken Goshōzō” (Imperial Distinguished Portraits),

printed and published on April 13, 1891 (Meiji 24).

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■ Composition & Historical Meaning

The composition of this work is highly intentional and symbolic.

At the upper center are:

• Emperor Meiji

• Empress Shōken

• Crown Prince Yoshihito (later Emperor Taisho)

Surrounding them are portraits of key statesmen, senior officials, and national leaders who supported the foundation of modern Japan.

This layout visually represents the structure of the Meiji state:

the Imperial family at the center, with political and military elites positioned around them.

It is not merely a group portrait, but a visual statement of authority, hierarchy, and nation-building in pre–20th century Japan.

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■ Important Marginal Inscriptions (Outside the Frame)

One of the most important features of this piece is the text printed in the margins outside the main image.

These inscriptions clearly state:

• Exact print and publication date: April 13, 1891

• Artist & publisher: Sadahiro Ariyama

• Publisher’s address in Kanda, Tokyo

This information strongly supports that this is an original Meiji-period print,

not a later reproduction.

For collectors, these marginal details are crucial for authentication and historical verification.

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■ Pre–Russo-Japanese War Context

This work was created more than a decade before the Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905).

For Japan, the Russo-Japanese War later became a turning point that symbolized its emergence as a modern world power.

The individuals depicted here are those who built the political, military, and institutional foundations that made that transformation possible.

Therefore, this piece represents Japan before its global rise, capturing the leadership of a nation still in the process of defining itself.

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■ About the Artist & Publisher – Sadahiro Ariyama

Sadahiro Ariyama was a prominent Meiji-era lithographic artist and publisher, active mainly from the 1880s to the 1890s in Tokyo (Kanda district).

Unlike many publishers, Ariyama both created and published his own works.

He is known for lithographic portraits, historical scenes, landscapes, and imperial imagery intended for display and education.

This work is considered a representative example of Meiji-period framed lithographs.

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■ Size & Condition

• Approx. 45 × 36 cm

• Original lithograph (stone print)

• Original antique frame (believed to be original to the piece)

• Condition: Fair / below average, with foxing, stains, and age-related wear

(Please refer to photos)

Item is sold as-is.

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■ Summary

• Authentic 1891 Meiji-era imperial lithograph

• Emperor Meiji, Empress, and Crown Prince at center

• Pre–Russo-Japanese War historical context

• Marginal inscriptions confirming date and publisher

• Ideal for collectors of Japanese history, Meiji-era art, and imperial memorabilia

We can worldwide delivery

FedEx or Japan post

Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to offerding or buying.

Thank you for your understanding.