2022 Volume 108 Pages 78-100
Hakubundou which was managed by Harada Shouzaemon in the Meiji Era was known for the printing of the “Kajinno-kiguu”. However, in the late 19th century the company was facing a downturn in their business and temporarily submitted a notice of closure in 1901. Seven years later, Aburaya Tatsu, the second son of Shouzaemon, revived the company as “Aburaya Hakubundou” in Osaka. This company specialized in high quality printing of old paintings and antiques using the collotype. The company also took part in the reproduction of classic Chinese cultural properties and once again flourished across the country. However, it is only partially known that the company was involved in the printing of photographs and postcards from 1901 to 1908. Meanwhile, manuscripts and photographs printed by the company found in the home of descendants of the Harada family in recent years have been revealed details of the activities of Hakubundou during the period. This article will look into the activities of Hakubundou during the period, clarify the involvement of the photographer OGAWA Kazumasa in the photography publishing business of Hakubundou, and provide an insight into the business in the late Meiji Era.
