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 - Beautiful kuchi-e portrait of a young woman standing on a pleasure boat, looking over her shoulder with a pensive expression. One hand rests on the roof of the cabin, the other lifting the hem of her robe. Her soft green kimono features a leafy pattern echoed by the willow branches at upper right, tied with a blue obi. She wears a gold ring on the third finger of her left hand, and her hair is swept back into a large bun adorned with a small comb and single hairpin. A lovely image.

Artist - Suzuki Kason (1860 - 1919)

Image Size - 11 3/8" x 8 5/8"

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Horizontal folds. Small indented marks near top. Please see photos for details.