A Beauty is Dreaming Kuchi-e Print

by Kawai Gyokudo (1873 - 1957)

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A Beauty is Dreaming Kuchi-e Print by Kawai Gyokudo (1873 - 1957)

Original Kawai Gyokudo (1873 - 1957) Japanese Woodblock Print
A Beauty is Dreaming 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 - Intriguing kuchi-e illustration showing a young woman sleeping with her head on the edge of a table, dreaming fitfully of war. Above the circular double spheres suggesting a view through a binocular, troops with bayonets are shown in silhouette, ready to charge forward in battle. She wears a pale green kimono with a darker green pattern in brushy strokes, an illusion to her agitated state of mind. Her purple obi is delicately detailed with silver mica. A rare design by Kawai Gyokudo, who did very few kuchi-e prints. This image appears on page 173 of Helen Merritt and Nanako Yamada's recent book, "Woodblock Kuchi-e Prints: Reflections of Meiji Culture."

Artist - Kawai Gyokudo (1873 - 1957)

Image Size - 8 1/2" x 11 1/4"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Backed with old paper. A couple light horizontal creases. Backed with paper. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

A Beauty is Dreaming Kuchi-e Print by Kawai Gyokudo (1873 - 1957)
A Beauty is Dreaming Kuchi-e Print by Kawai Gyokudo (1873 - 1957)

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