Beauty and Sick Man Kuchi-e Print

by Tomioka Eisen (1864 - 1905)

Current Status

Beauty and Sick Man Kuchi-e Print by Tomioka Eisen (1864 - 1905)

Original Tomioka Eisen (1864 - 1905) Japanese Woodblock Print
Beauty and Sick Man Kuchi-e Print

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 - Strange kuchi-e scene of a sick man covered with spots, perhaps measles, grabbing hold of a young woman's arm. He leans against an armrest, a large cup of sake in his other hand, as the beauty recoils in horror from him. She cowers behind her kimono sleeve as the man behind her places his hands on her shoulder. Nicely detailed with burnishing on the black kimono, the lamp, and the beauty's hair. The first time we've seen this unusual design.

Artist - Tomioka Eisen (1864 - 1905)

Image Size - 8 3/8" x 10 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical centerfold, diagonal fold at edges. Slight toning, soiling, and creasing. Please see photos for details.

Beauty and Sick Man Kuchi-e Print by Tomioka Eisen (1864 - 1905)
Beauty and Sick Man Kuchi-e Print by Tomioka Eisen (1864 - 1905)

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