Courtesan Jigoku Dayu Kuchi-e Print, 1903

by Eisen Tomioka (1864 - 1905)

Current Status

Courtesan Jigoku Dayu Kuchi-e Print, 1903  by Eisen Tomioka (1864 - 1905)

Original Eisen Tomioka (1864 - 1905) Japanese Woodblock Print
Courtesan Jigoku Dayu Kuchi-e Print, 1903

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 - Fantastic image of the elegant courtesan Jigoku Dayu contemplating a skull as a symbol of her own mortality, with a faint wisp of smoke rising from the skull. Her name literally means "Lady of Hell." She was converted to a religious life by the Priest Ikkyu. She stands regally, her hair piled high atop her head with decorative combs and hairpins. She wears a simple black kimono patterned with cranes and an impressive obi featuring Buddhist deities in a geometric motif. A terrific design with beautiful detailing in the finely drawn face and hair, and soft shading. A fine illustration for the novel "Shiki Soku Ze-ku," published in Bungei Kurabu magazine. A rare large format kuchi-e print.

Artist - Eisen Tomioka (1864 - 1905)

Image Size - 9 3/8" x 14 3/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail. Some light soiling in subject. A couple minor creases as is seen in all kuchi-e prints. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Courtesan Jigoku Dayu Kuchi-e Print, 1903  by Eisen Tomioka (1864 - 1905)
Courtesan Jigoku Dayu Kuchi-e Print, 1903  by Eisen Tomioka (1864 - 1905)

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