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 - Attractive kuchi-e of a beauty standing next to a palanquin, preparing to leave. She pauses for a final look back over her shoulder, a lavender robe and a spray of chrysanthemums in her arms. She wears a gray kimono over a pale green under robe, the collar delicately embossed, tied with a black obi with a subtle burnished design and silver metallic motifs. A garden gate and reed fence stand at right, with dry autumn grasses at left and the faint silhouette of a mountain visible in the distance. An interesting design detailed with burnishing the beauty's hair.

Artist - Tomioka Eisen (1864 - 1905)

Image Size - 8 1/2" x 11 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Two light creases, as with all kuchi-e prints (because of their use). Slight toning, very faint pink staining in lower right corner. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.