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 scene of a beauty just finishing milking a cow. She holds her hand out to the animal as she walks away, a pail of milk in her other hand. A large white apron is tied over her print kimono, and a blossoming plum tree can be seen beyond the fence at right. A rarely seen kuchi-e design.

Artist - Takeuchi Keishu (1861 - 1942)

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

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Horizontal folds. Remnants of paper hinge mounts on reverse at top corners. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details.