Ohara Koson (Shōson) (Japanese, 1877–1945)
Title: Diving Mallard
Medium: Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
Date: c. 1920s–1930s
Dimensions: Approximately 14 x 9.5 in. (oban tate-e)
Publisher: Watanabe Shōzaburō
This exquisite print captures a mallard in the instant before submersion, wings outstretched and tail uplifted, its head disappearing beneath a gently rippling surface. A master of kacho-ga (bird-and-flower prints), Ohara Koson—later known as Shōson—renders the naturalistic poise and grace of waterfowl with remarkable delicacy. The contrast between soft muted tones and dynamic movement reflects his skill in combining realism with Japanese aesthetics.
Koson’s collaboration with Watanabe Shōzaburō during the shin-hanga movement enabled his works to reach Western collectors, who were captivated by his poetic and precise wildlife scenes. Diving Mallard remains a celebrated example of his ability to evoke the fleeting moments of nature.
Suian Hirafuku (Japanese, 1844–1890)
Fish in Water, ca. 1885
Woodblock color print on paper
Dimensions: 9 9/16 x 9 7/8 in. (24.3 x 25.1 cm)
Depicting a single carp swimming amidst gently rippling water, this delicately composed Meiji-period print showcases Suian Hirafuku’s elegant brush-influenced line work and refined color sensibility. Rare in surviving examples, this print reflects the transitional aesthetic between Edo ukiyo-e and emerging Nihonga influences.
Condition: some age toning.
gouache on board.
19 x 24cm
There is some paint loss at the top of the picture right hand side.
Children Playing Blind Man's Buff
Watercolour on linen.
Touches of white.
17.5cm x 23.5cm
Inscribed and seal.
An interesting traditional work.
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Chinese School....Watercolour.
18.5cm x 15cm Inscribed/signed. ArtistAfter Kiyonaga Title"Shunga #O" DateEarly Showa Period, 1931 PublisherBijutsusha (Tokyo, active 1920's-1930's) Seal, Carver/Printerna Image Size8 5/8 x 9 7/8 ImpressionVery Fine. Skillfully executed "bokashi" shading; extensive "gauffrage" (embossing) to body areas and decorative outer border area; highly detailed carving of hair-lines; crisp line-work. Condition.Good Fresh colors. Full original margins. (Light toning; few scattered marks; light wear.) CommentsA colorful early-Showa period "shunga" print. Highly detailed and exquisitely printed--with decorative "window format" design. Quite clean for "shunga." |
Flowers in Bamboo.
Watercolour on silk.
39cm x 29cm.
Signed and seal
Blossom on a branch
Watercolour on paper
Signed
39 x 26cm
