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 - Lovely kuchi-e scene of a beauty in a garden pausing beside a stone basin of water. She kneels beside the basin, looking at her reflection in the water and adjusting a comb in her hair. She wears a purple and white striped kimono over a pale pink under robe, tied with a blue and yellow obi. A tree with dying leaves frames a view of white blossoms and a stone lantern, with stepping stones leading back through the courtyard. A charming, quietly reflective design, beautifully drawn with soft colors and fine detail, including burnishing on the hair.

Artist - Kajita Hanko (1870 - 1917)

Image Size - 8 3/4" x 11 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Vertical folds. Slight toning and creasing. Please see photos for details.