Floating Cloud (Ukigumo)

Blemishes: Light soiling and dappling on both panels (photo). The U/R corner of the title panel is bent (photo). The first free endpaper has a vertical fold, likely caused by a publisher defect (see below). Moderate uniform page toning, expected with a 76-year-old softcover publication using inferior grade paper. Original owner obviously took some precautions in storing and referencing this book. Stated 1st Edition. Brief biography and photo of the author (photo). No marks or entries. All pages and illustrations are present and unblemished.

Craftsmanship: Unlike contemporary standards by this country, which are among the best in the world, Japan's book publishing efforts Circa 1957 were still struggling with ready access to quantity and quality publishing materials caused by the ravages of WW II just over a decade earlier. The binding is stapled, not glued. The paper quality is more pulp-fiction quality than would be found in a First Printing of an English translated epic novel. When this particular copy was finished cut by the publisher, the first free endpaper was out of precise alignment resulting in an exposed edge on the top of the book. This very likely caused the vertical fold (photo) when the book was later purchased by the original owner. The book is left "as-is," it's unique and part of the history and character of the time. The new owner can easily razor trim that exposed page edge at his/her discretion. Free shipping to domestic buyers.