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 young man kneeling on a hilltop, watching as a vision of a beautiful deity and her young attendants appears in a swirling cloud. She points fly whisk at him as green and pink sashes flutter about her, an enormous full moon glowing behind her in the evening sky. He rises up on one knee, leaning forward with outstretched arms. An intriguing subject, drawn with delicate line work.

Artist - Meiji era artist (not read)

Image Size - 8 3/4" x 11 1/2"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Two vertical folds. Creasing, faint toning, slight rubbing at bottom left. Please see photos for details. Good overall.