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 - Lovely kuchi-e design of a young beauty presenting an offering tray holding a small basket with a flowering plant. She wears a beautiful floral pattern kimono with touches of embossing in the white areas. Her hair is pulled back into a ponytail decorated with a single comb. A charming illustration. Nicely detailed with burnishing in the black hair and embossing in the white kimono.

Artist - Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two vertical folds. Remnants of paper hinge mounts on reverse at top corners. Small hole, small tear at edges, repaired. Slight toning, creasing at edges. Please see photos for details. Otherwise good.