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 of a young child sitting on a straw mat playing with three monkeys. One of the animals offers him a flower as the boy waves at his mother, who watches him over her shoulder as she draws a pail of water from the well. The scene is reminiscent of the tale of Kintaro, a boy who was raised in the mountains by the woman Yamauba, and who made friends with the animals there. The first time we've seen this design.

Artist - Meiji era artist (unsigned)

Image Size - 8 1/8" x 9 7/8" + margin as shown

Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. Vertical folds. Slight toning and soiling, a few small marks. Please see photos for details.

Shopping Fuji Arts Clearance-

We sell thousands of clearance prints every year in our three ultra-low price categories. Start collecting, purchase an inexpensive print, or discover something special in Fuji Arts Clearance. Notable collectors worldwide shop the clearance regularly.

What prints are in Fuji Arts Clearance?

- Prints that have moved through our auctions and will sell below cost.
- Overstocked prints.
- Prints with condition issues.

Use the item page and photos to shop clearance. We don’t offer support for clearance purchasing (additional photos or enhanced identifications). All available information is on the item page. Clearance prints are final sale.

Shipping minimums: We do not ship orders totaling less than $24.99.