Attack during a Thunderstorm Kuchi-e Print

by Meiji era artist (unsigned)

Current Status

Attack during a Thunderstorm Kuchi-e Print by Meiji era artist (unsigned)

Original Meiji era Japanese Woodblock Print
Attack during a Thunderstorm Kuchi-e Print

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 - Dramatic kuchi-e scene of a man attacking two other men during a thunder storm, using a piece of wooden broken from a fence as a weapon. One fellow falls backwards at left as blood spurts from a head wound while the other sprawls on the ground, his lantern catching fire. A bold of lightning zigzags across the night sky as rain pelts down. Detailed with metallic silver pigment on the raindrops.

Artist - Meiji era artist (unsigned)

Image Size - 10 3/4" x 7 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Horizontal and vertical folds. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details.

Attack during a Thunderstorm Kuchi-e Print by Meiji era artist (unsigned)
Attack during a Thunderstorm Kuchi-e Print by Meiji era artist (unsigned)

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