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 - Wonderful kuchi-e portrait of a modern Japanese beauty of the Meiji era. The young woman wears a white Western style dress, her hair wreathed in delicate blossoms, perhaps bridal attire. A large plum colored peony blossom and leaves fill the foreground. An excellent example of the kuchi-e genre.

Artist - Kajita Hanko (1870 - 1917)

Image Size - 11 1/4" x 8 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical folds. A few holes, repaired. Creasing, slight soiling, a couple spots. Please see photos for details.