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 - Interesting kuchi-e scene of an elderly man astride a rearing horse, shouting as his horse's hooves paw at the air. His face is wizened, with shaggy eyebrows and what's left of his thinning hair pulled back into the slenderest of top knots. He wears a dotted kamishimo over a blue-green kimono with white plaid inserts, and white socks. A striking design, beautifully detailed and accented with silver mica on the horse's bit.

Artist - Hamada Josen (1875 - ?)

Image Size - 8 5/8" x 11 7/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical folds. Some faint spots. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.