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 illustration of a beauty relaxing on a rustic wooden bench, enjoying the cool evening breeze. She wears a blue and white cotton kimono patterned with blossoms, tied with a burgundy obi. She looks up with a rather dreamy expression, lost in her thoughts, her hair pulled back into a smooth bun tied with a white ribbon. A dog sits patiently at her side. The background foliage is beautifully rendered in softly shaded silhouettes. A charming design for the novel "Suzu kaze" (Cool Breeze).

Artist - Kawai Gyokudo (1873 - 1957)

Image Size - 11" x 7 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Backed with somewhat stiff paper. Folds. Some prints have wrinkling or a few spots. Please see photos for details.