Historically significant Japanese Meiji period woodblock print triptych by Kojima Shogetsu (active circa 1870-1904) illustrating the Emperor and Empress in the imperial carriage on the afternoon of February 11, 1889. The carriage and accompanying procession had just crossed the Niju Bridge and was heading to the parade grounds to celebrate Japan's new Constitution. This was the first time in Japan's history that the Emperor and Empress were seen riding together in the same coach. The full triptych measures 13 3/4" x 27 1/2." Very good color and overall condition. The panels are connected and album backed. There is some creasing and wear particularly at the panel edges. A description of this scene and a similar triptych by Kunitoshi can be found on pages 172-175 of "The World of the Meiji Print: Impressions of a New Civilization" by Julia Meech-Pekarik.