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 court beauty from the Heian era peering from behind a fine reed blind. Her dark hair falls straight around her face and down her back as she leans forward cautiously, her sleeve seen in silhouette through the blind. She wears a dark kimono patterned with delicate maple leaves, tucked into red hakama pants. A charming design with beautiful burnished detail in her hair and delicate line work in the blind.

Artist - Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Some creases. Backed with paper. Please see photos for details. Good overall.