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 a mother and daughter reading a book in a comfortable room. The young girl holds the book with an eager expression as her mother places a hand on her shoulder. The beauty wears a blue and white striped kimono, her hair elegantly styled with a colorful ornament, comb, and red ribbon. A gold ring is visible on her middle finger. Another book lies open on the low table before them, with a brazier on the floor nearby and a scroll hanging in a niche above a planter. An attractive scene, nicely detailed with burnishing on the hair. A rarely seen design and the only known kuchi-e illustration by Yamada Keichu.

Artist - Yamada Keichu (1868 - 1934)

Image Size - 8 3/4" x 11 1/2"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical folds. Toning, soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details.