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 - Charming image of a young peasant woman sitting on a straw mat. Two small chicks peck at seeds of grain on the ground, and she holds a stalk of grain in her hand. Beautifully drawn with fine line work and soft coloring.
Artist - Kajita Hanko (1870 - 1917)
Image Size - 11" x 8 5/8"
Condition - With excellent color and detail. Two light creases, as with all kuchi-e prints (because of their use). Slightly toned. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.
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