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 - Beautiful interior scene of a young beauty reading, looking up from her open book as she hears the song of a nightingale. Outside the shoji window, the bird perches on the branch of a flowering tree, shown in soft gray silhouette. A charming kuchi-e print with wonderful detail in the household setting.

Artist - Suzuki Kason (1860 - 1919)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Vertical folds. Small wormhole, repaired. Slight toning and soiling. Please see photos for details.