Newspaper Kuchi-e Print

by Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

Current Status

Newspaper Kuchi-e Print by Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

Original Toshikata (1866 - 1908) Japanese Woodblock Print
Newspaper Kuchi-e Print

A Fuji Arts Estate Feature - This print is from a beautiful collection of Meiji designs recently purchased from a Tokyo estate. The collection was outstanding and an exciting find. These print subjects are extremely popular with collectors; rare beauties, ghosts, warriors and ancient tales. The printing quality is top notch and the prints beautifully preserved. This astute Japanese collector focused on the most interesting designs and insisted that the prints were finely printed and in good condition. We’ll be offering this fantastic estate group over the next few weeks. Watch for the subtitle "Fine Tokyo Meiji collection" and enjoy the prints as the offerings unfold this month!

The Kuchi-e Tradition - Kuchi-e prints are woodblock frontispiece illustrations used in the publication of Japanese novels and magazines around the turn of the 20th century. Most kuchi-e prints were illustrations of bijin and continued the tradition of idealized beauties in Japanese art. The subjects, however, have a decidedly Meiji era feel about them and reflect the artistic movement towards more western design. Kuchi-e prints typically have one or two folds because of their use.

Much interest has been generated in the subject since the publication of Helen Merritt and Nanako Yamada's book, "Woodblock Kuchi-e Prints: Reflections of Meiji Culture." Kuchi-e prints have become highly sought after and collected by the serious collector.

Comments - Interesting kuchi-e scene of a beauty holding a newspaper as she slides a screen shut behind her after entering a room. She wears a soft brown kimono with a subtle white pattern, tied with a blue obi decorated with sprigs of silver metallic leaves. Her hair is pulled back into a bun adorned with a comb and red ribbon, a few wisps framing her face. The dragonflies on the screen at right are also done in metallic silver. A charming design, the folds of the cloth shaded to create a sense of depth.

Artist - Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

Image Size - 11 3/8" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Two light creases, as with all kuchi-e prints (because of their use). A few light spots. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.

Newspaper Kuchi-e Print by Toshikata (1866 - 1908)
Newspaper Kuchi-e Print by Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

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