This is an original wartime issue of Nichi-I Bunka Kenkyu (“Studies of Italo-Japanese Culture”),

published in 1942 (Showa 17) by the Japan–Italy Society.

The Japan–Italy Society was founded to promote cultural exchange between the two nations,

but during WWII it functioned largely as a propaganda organ. This journal was a key publication,

meant to emphasize cultural affinity and political solidarity between Fascist Italy and Imperial Japan.

It was issued under the context of the Tripartite Pact (Axis Alliance), the notorious

military-political alliance signed by Japan, Germany, and Italy in 1940.

This pact is remembered as an infamous attempt to divide the world among the Axis powers.

The cultural journal reflects how propaganda extended beyond the battlefield into academic and cultural spheres.

Contents of this issue include:

• “The Basis of Fascist Legislation” (analysis of Italian political system)
• “Italian Culture” (literature, history, and art)
• Studies of Dante’s Divine Comedy
• Photographic features on Naples and Pompeii
• Essays on Roman heritage and classical culture

This issue was printed in the midst of WWII, shortly after Japan entered the Pacific War.

By the late war years such publications disappeared, making surviving copies rare today.

Condition: significant wear, cover and spine damage, some loose pages, but complete as issued.

A highly valuable historical document for collectors of WWII propaganda, Axis studies,

and Japan–Italy cultural history.