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 illustration for the novel "Autumn Color," a tale about an alcoholic father who sells his daughter to prostitute agent to support his drinking habit. Here, the greedy old man tucks money into the front of his kimono as he stares at Omutsu, the brutal agent, who puts her purse away in her obi. Eisen depicts their corruption by making the figures ugly and menacing, the father grizzled and aged beyond his years because of his depravity. An intriguing scene. This image appears on page 71 in Helen Merritt and Nanako Yamada's recent book, "Woodblock Kuchi-e Prints: Reflections of Meiji Culture."

Artist - Tomioka Eisen (1864 - 1905)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two folds. Light toning and creasing, slight soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.