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 - Handsome kuchi-e scene of a samurai facing his wife and child on a moonlit night. The beauty kneels on the ground at left, her arm around the young boy as she looks back at her husband. He regards her solemnly, wearing a black kimono tucked into yellow striped pants, his swords tucked into his obi. A few petals flutter down from the blossoming cherry tree behind them, a symbol of the intransigence of life. A nicely detailed kuchi-e print, rarely seen.

Artist - Shoso Mishima (1856 - 1928)

Image Size - 8 3/8" x 10 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Partially backed with paper. Vertical centerfold. Slight creasing and soiling. Please see photos for details.