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 - Poignant image of a mother walking with her young son. The crying boy wipes his eyes with one hand as his mother leads him by the wrist, anxiously biting on a blue and white cloth. The round inset features a fine building in shades of gray and black. Subtle burnishing on the woman's hair and the black collar. An interesting kuchi-e illustration from the novel "Cursed" (Bachi Atari).

Artist - Tomioka Eisen (1864 - 1905)

Image Size - 8 3/8" x 11"

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Vertical folds. A few small marks. Please see photos for details.