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 - Attractive kuchi-e illustration for the novel "Scent of Plum" (Ume no Kaori) featuring a young beauty in a red kimono. She looks to the side out of the corners of her eyes as she adjusts a hairpin. Her hair is swept back into a soft bun adorned with a red lacquer comb and a ribbon. A sliding panel behind her shows a procession of beauties, and a round window with a wooden lattice can be seen at right. A handsome composition.
Artist - Yamanaka Kodo (1869 - 1945)
Image Size - 12" x 8 5/8"
Condition - Nice color and detail. Horizontal folds. Losses at edge, repaired.
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