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 design of a young woman unrolling a decorative scroll of a painting of bamboo, in preparation for changing the hanging in her scroll niche for the spring season. A lovely interior setting with a standing screen and a vase with a peony. Beautifully detailed.

Artist - Terazaki Kogyo (1866 - 1919)

Image Size - 9 5/8" x 6 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Paper remnants on reverse from previous backing. Horizontal folds. A few holes, repaired. Soiling, creasing, stains. Please see photos for details.