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 kuchi-e design featuring a portrait of a young beauty drying the side of her face with a cloth in a circular inset, bordered by a scene of water framed by tall reeds. She smiles happily as she looks into a mirror on a stand, wearing a red kimono patterned with large green leaves and delicate blue flowers. Her hair is pulled back into a large knot, with loose wisps framing her face. The colorful figure provides a lively contrast to the subdued tones of the background. Nicely detailed with fine line work and burnishing on the hair.

Artist - Terazaki Kogyo (1866 - 1919)

Image Size - 8 1/2" x 10 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical folds. Small spot with slight rubbing. Please see photos for details.