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 kuchi-e scene of a beauty standing in a window, watching the rain. Water streams from the tips of the iris leaves hanging over the edge of the tile roof, falling in straight lines. She wears a blue kimono with a delicate white pattern of leaves and blossoms, tied with a blue-violet obi print obi. Her hair is pulled back into a sleek bun, adorned with a large comb and a few hairpins. An interesting subject with fine line work.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 12" x 8 3/8" + left margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two horizontal folds. Paper hinge mounts on reverse at top corners. A couple small tears at corner, repaired. A few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.