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 - Great kuchi-e portrait of a samurai sitting next to an open window, looking up at the stars twinkling in the night sky. He wears a red vest over a fine suit of armor and a kimono and pants decorated with blossoms, and a tall black court cap. With one striped gloved hand he makes a gesture touching his thumb and second finger together, and he holds a silver tassel in the other. A celestial globe can be seen at lower left. An intriguing subject, accented with metallic silver pigment on the stars, the globe, the tassel, and the blossoms on the kimono and pants, and a burnished pattern on the black cap. The first time we have seen this striking design.

Artist - Meiji era artist (not read)

Image Size - 10 5/8" x 8 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Horizontal and vertical folds. A few holes, slight separation at ends of fold, repaired. Creasing and wrinkling, slight toning and soiling, seal and paper remnants at lower left. Please see photos for details.