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 image of a beauty selling sweet white sake wine from a roadside stall. Partially hidden from view, she peers around a reed blind with a slightly alarmed expression. A blue and white porcelain jug sits on top of a small stand, and delicate pink and rose cherry blossoms frame the scene. A lovely kuchi-e illustration from the novel "Shiro-zake Uri."

Artist - Takeuchi Keishu (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 10 1/2" x 7" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Horizontal folds. Small hole, repaired. Creasing and wrinkling, slight toning and soiling. Please see photos for details.