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 two beauties on an outing to view the cherry blossoms. The women are dressed in matching black kimono patterned with tied-died flowers and blue waves, each with a red and white cloth tied around her neck. The beauty at left gestures with her finger as delicate pink petals flutter down through the sky. Her hair is adorned with a spring of cherry blossoms, to which a tiny poem slip is attached. A lovely design with soft color, detailed with burnishing in the hair.

Artist - Terazaki Kogyo (1866 - 1919)

Image Size - 7 7/8" x 10 3/8" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Horizontal and vertical folds. Slight soiling. Please see photos for details.