Lantern Kuchi-e Print, 1910

by Toshimine (1863 - 1934)

Current Status

Lantern Kuchi-e Print, 1910 by Toshimine (1863 - 1934)

Original Toshimine (1863 - 1934) Japanese Woodblock Print
Lantern Kuchi-e Print, 1910

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 illustration for the novel "Tourou," which means lantern in Japanese. A young beauty passes by a doorway with a softly colored lantern hung outside, the paper trim swaying in the cool evening breeze. She wears a red kimono patterned with swirls and bordered with a blue tied-dyed design, tied with a checked obi in silver mica. An attractive design with the colorful kimono and lantern providing a nice contrast to the muted gray evening sky.

Artist - Toshimine (1863 - 1934)

Image Size - 12 5/8" x 8 3/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two folds. Wormhole, repaired. Slight soiling, a few small marks and creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Lantern Kuchi-e Print, 1910 by Toshimine (1863 - 1934)
Lantern Kuchi-e Print, 1910 by Toshimine (1863 - 1934)

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