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 - Terrific design of a young beauty with a pensive look on her face on a fall day, as red maple leaves swirl around her. Her hair is softly piled on her head, held in place with a wooden comb and a ribbon, a few wisps escaping around her face and neck. A lovely, sensitive portrait illustration for the novel A Balmy Autumn Day. This design is featured on the back cover of Merritt and Yamada's book, "Woodblock Kuchi-e Prints: Reflections of Meiji Culture."

Artist - Takeuchi Keishu (1861 - 1943)

Image Size - 12" x 8 1/2"

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Horizontal and diagonal folds. A few creases. Please see photos for details.