author
Edward Greey
1835–1888
A British-born writer, diplomat, and art dealer, he helped introduce many English-language readers to Japan in the late 19th century. His books blend travel, storytelling, and a deep fascination with Japanese culture and art.
1 Audiobook
About the author
Born in Sandwich, Kent, on December 1, 1835, Edward Greey was educated by private tutors and later joined the English naval expedition to Japan in 1855–1856. He spent several years on station and shore duty there, learned the language, and studied Japanese history closely.
After serving in China and working in diplomatic roles, he settled in the United States in 1868. In New York he became known both as a writer and as a dealer in Japanese and Chinese art ware, building on the expertise he had gained through firsthand experience in East Asia.
Greey wrote popular books that brought Japanese life, legend, and aesthetics to Western readers, including The Golden Lotus and Other Legends of Japan, Young Americans in Japan, and The Wonderful City of Tokio. He died in New York City on October 1, 1888.