Emperors of Japon - Châtelain c.1705

Title: Succession des Empereurs du Japon avec une Description du Meurtre de l’Empereur Cubo...
Cartographer/Publisher: Henri Abraham Châtelain
Published: Amsterdam, c. 1705–1720
Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand-coloring

Description: A fascinating and highly detailed historical plate documenting the imperial and political history of Japan. The upper portion of the engraving features two large, dramatic scenes: the "Murder of the Emperor Cubo" (referring to the assassination of the Shogun) and the formal reception of Dutch Ambassadors in Japan, illustrating the precise and ritualized nature of 17th-century diplomacy.

The central feature is an intricate genealogical tree showing the succession of Japanese rulers, flanked by dense columns of French text that recount the history of the "Cubo" (Shogun) and the details of the Dutch embassy. At the bottom center is a charming, small-scale map of Japan (Carte du Japon), which serves as a geographical anchor for the historical narratives above. This plate is a prime example of Châtelain's "encyclopedic" style, designed to educate the European public on the complex social and political systems of the Far East.

• Authenticity: Original 18th-century copperplate engraving.

• Key Visuals: Depicts the unique relationship between the VOC (Dutch East India Company) and the Japanese Shogunate.

• Condition: Excellent preservation of the delicate hand-coloring and crisp typographic details.