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 print of a young beauty sitting next to a window. She wears a kimono patterned with colorful family crests, and holds a fan. A lovely design of lotus blossoms and pods frames the image. Beautifully detailed with delicate cloth embossing on the white robe, burnishing in the hair, and a dark, silver metallic pattern on the red obi. A handsome print from the novel "Keisei" (Courtesan).

Artist - Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

Image Size - 8 3/4" x 10 7/8" + margin at right as shown

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