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 - Interesting kuchi-e image of a wife clipping her husband's fingernails as he leans over a low table reading a book, his chin resting on his hand. Nicely detailed with embossing on the man's white shirt under his kimono and the hibachi on the floor behind the pair. The first time we've seen this design.

Artist - Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

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

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