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 - Beautiful kuchi-e print of a young woman bundled up against the cold, carrying a battledore used for a game similar to badminton that is played at the New Year's holiday. Her hair is piled loosely on her head, held in place with a floral ornament, and she looks pensively over her shoulder. A full moon shines in the pale winter sky. Only the second time we've seen this lovely image.
Artist - Suzuki Kason (1860 - 1919)
Image Size - 11 5/8" x 8 5/8"
Condition - Nice color and detail. Horizontal folds, repair and wrinkling at corner.
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