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 - Charming kuchi-e illustration of a beauty next to the mosquito netting holding her hands to her ears during a storm, frightened by the sound of the thunder. She wears a blue and white butterfly print summer kimono, and sticks of incense burn in a dish on the floor beyond the green mosquito netting at left. Lovely painterly detail in the hair.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 12 1/8" x 8 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Horizontal folds. Small repair, slight creasing. Please see photos for details.