Whitebait Kuchi-e Print, 1911

by Kiyokata Kaburagi (1878 - 1972)

Current Status

Whitebait Kuchi-e Print, 1911 by Kiyokata Kaburagi (1878 - 1972)

Original Kiyokata Kaburagi (1878 - 1972) Japanese Woodblock Print
Whitebait Kuchi-e Print, 1911

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 scene of a beauty using chopsticks to choose morsels of whitebait fish from a wooden tray on the floor before her. She holds a red lacquer container in her other hand as she looks down, absorbed in her work. Nicely detailed with burnishing on the hair and black kimono collar.

Artist - Kiyokata Kaburagi (1878 - 1972)

Image Size - 11 3/4" x 8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two horizontal folds. Slight toning, soiling, and creasing, a few stains. Please see photos for details.

Whitebait Kuchi-e Print, 1911 by Kiyokata Kaburagi (1878 - 1972)
Whitebait Kuchi-e Print, 1911 by Kiyokata Kaburagi (1878 - 1972)

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