Ohara Koson, "Hawk Chasing an Insect"

Koson wonderfully captures the dexterity of a predatory hawk as it chases an insect.  The refined detail of the hawk with its outstretched wings and piercing focus as it pursues the insect brings a dramatic energy to the composition. 

Date: ca. 1910s
Size: Tanzaku
Publisher: Matsuki Heikichi (Daikokuya)
Condition: Some soiling to far right margin, otherwise excellent/fine color and condition

Ohara Koson (Shoson) (1877-1945) was the master of kacho-e (prints of birds and flowers) during the shin-hanga period of woodblock prints in Japan. Trained as a painter, Koson's work exquisitely captured the raw beauty of nature and many of his bird prints are iconic in Japanese design.