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 print of a beauty embroidering the edge of a cloth, smiling as she leans over her work. She wears a checked kimono tied with a dark blue violet obi edged in orange, her hair pulled back into a sleek bun adorned with a red lacquer comb and tasseled floral ornament. The scene at right shows an elderly woman answering the door to a man dressed in a suit and carrying a leather bag and an umbrella. She nods her head politely as she gestures for him to enter. An attractive design with lovely burnishing on the beauty's hair.

Artist - Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

Image Size - 8 3/8" x 10 7/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Slight separation at end of vertical centerfold, repaired. Slight creasing and soiling. Please see photos for details.