Selling Firewood Kuchi-e Print, 1908

by Mishima Shoso (1856 - 1928)

Current Status

Selling Firewood Kuchi-e Print, 1908 by Mishima Shoso (1856 - 1928)

Original Mishima Shoso (1856 - 1928) Japanese Woodblock Print
Selling Firewood Kuchi-e Print, 1908

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 illustration a farm woman selling firewood, carrying bundles of brush on her back. In one hand she holds a string of oranges or persimmons. She wears a short striped jacket over a blue and white print robe and leggings, a tie-dyed apron fastened around her waist. She pauses next to a bridge railing on the stony path, snow-covered mountains in the distance. Nicely composed.

Artist - Mishima Shoso (1856 - 1928)

Image Size - 11 1/4" x 8 1/2"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Horizontal folds. A few small holes, repaired. Slight toning, a few light creases. Please see photos for details.

Selling Firewood Kuchi-e Print, 1908 by Mishima Shoso (1856 - 1928)
Selling Firewood Kuchi-e Print, 1908 by Mishima Shoso (1856 - 1928)

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