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 - Intriguing kuchi-e print of a torpedo officer paying a visit to a wounded soldier in the hospital. He stands with his hand on a chair, chatting with the patient, who sits up slightly in bed. The officer wears a black uniform with a medal pinned to his chest, his sword at his side. A nurse bows politely during the interchange, a red cross visible on her white cap. The patient's chart hangs from the bed frame at right, an interesting detail. From the story of the same name by Miyake Seiken in "Bungei kurabu."

Artist - Hanko Kajita (1870 - 1917)

Image Size - 8 3/4" x 11 1/4" + bottom margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Vertical centerfold. Slight soiling and curling, a couple creases. Please see photos for details.