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 composition of a young man turning around to watch a beauty walking past him. His mouth is slightly open, a surprised expression on his face, holding his hat with both hands. A few delicate cherry blossom petals drift through the spring air. An illustration for the novel "Henme-den."

Artist - Shoso Mishima (1856 - 1928)

Image Size - 8 7/8" x 11 1/8" + margin

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Faint spotting and creasing in subject. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.