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 in 2000 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 - Lovely kuchi-e illustration for the novel "Crimson Cruelty, Green Regret" showing a beauty hurrying through a spring rain shower, holding her umbrella before her. Gusts of wind and rain sweep across the gray sky, and delicate pink cherry blossom petals shower over the scene. Beautifully detailed with burnishing in the hair and umbrella trim, and soft shading in the sky.
Artist - Toshimine (1863 - 1934)
Image Size - 8 3/4" x 10 7/8" + margins as shown
Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Vertical folds. A couple creases at edges. Please see photos for details.
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