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 - Moving illustration for the novel "Autumn Colored Sumac" of a Heian era beauty traveling through the country, pausing for a moment to kneel and wipe her face with the edge of her kimono. Her hat lies on the ground beside her, and her outer robe is patterned in soft pastel colors with stripes and circular motifs, her long loose hair visible below the sleeve. The landscape background is suggested with simplified mountain shapes and and a sumac bush with red leaves. A handsome design.

Artist - Mishima Shoso (1856 - 1928)

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

Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. Horizontal folds, diagonal fold at side. A few small repairs and creases. Please see photos for details.