[SHIMURA, BUNZŌ, EDITED BY]. 志村文蔵編輯.

大東亜共栄圏付近. 新秩序建設途上の世界. [Daitōa Kyōeiken fukin. Shinchitsujo kensetu tojō no sekai].
[Map of the Greater East Asia Co-prosperity Sphere and Surrounding. Map of the World where the New Order is Progressively Built].

東京. [Tokyo]. 野ばら社. [Nobarasha]. Showa 16 [ 1941]. Stock ID #177383

Two joined coloured pictorial maps, each 39 x 52cm on single sheet size 78 x 52cm, multiple folds. Some browning particularly at lower right section of the map of East Asia, lower margin of world map chipped in one area not affecting the lower caption, light wear at folds and closed tears neatly repaired on the reverse with washi; good condition.

These two colourful and fascinating maps were supplement to a children's almanac, published by Nobarasha for the year of 1941. Both maps look innocent and fun with many illustrations of animal and human figures, but a closer examination reveals the geopolitical situation just before the Pacific War broke out. The map of the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere shows the Japanese territory in red and covers Southeast Asia and Pacific islands. The northern end of Australia appears at the bottom. The sea is filled with Japanese warships and aircraft, including an aircraft carrier.

The other sheet features an extraordinary and humorous map of the world. Pictographs of wildlife, people, and industries found around the world are mixed with ships and other marine life. Penguins gathered at both lower corners and lower edge observe it all with great interest. Australia is filled with wildlife and sheep. Yet, as the map title indicates, it shows shifting world geopolitical and military situations in 1940. Nazi Germany is expanding its control in Europe while Japan is advancing in China. The oceans and skies are filled with machines of war. Interestingly, a prominent figure of Napoleon is drawn on St Helena where he was exiled. The presence of Japanese migrants in Hawaii is marked, while the Spratly Islands are also marked as Japanese territory.

When referring to this item please quote stockid 177383.

Price: $1,250.00 AU

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