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 - Intriguing kuchi-e illustration from the novel "Yumemi bijin" (Dreaming Beauty) of a young man having fallen asleep at a desk, wearing a cross necklace. In an inset at upper left, a young beauty bites her sleeve as she looks down with an anguished expression. The background depicts a dream of a demon or deity holding a small figure upside down above a roaring fire with clouds of smoke and flames. An interesting subject and an unusual kuchi-e design by Kogyo, who is best known for his Noh theater prints.

Artist - Tsukioka Kogyo (1869 - 1927)

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

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Vertical folds, a few creases. Please see photos for details.