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 two girls visiting a jolly old man, who grins at them happily as he kneels on a cushion. He wears a black coat over his tan and white dotted kimono, a cloth cap, and a blue scarf tucked into his robe. The older girl leans forward with interest as he rests on hand atop the pokers thrust into the ashes of a brazier. Nicely detailed with burnishing in the girls' hair. We've never before come across this subject.

Artist - Terasaki Kogyo (1866 - 1919)

Image Size - 8 3/4" x 12"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical folds. Soiling, slight rubbing at corners, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.