Ohara Koson, "Egrets and Crescent Moon"

In this rare early-edition printing of one of Ohara Koson's most popular designs, two egrets stand gracefully in shallow water surrounded by tall grass under a crescent moon. An exceptional work by Koson and masterfully printed with embossing and delicate detailing. A first-edition impression published by Watanabe Shozaburo

Date: 1926
Size: Oban
Early edition (seal C)
Published by Watanabe Shozaburo
Condition: Excellent/fine color and condition
Frame Shown: 16" x 24" x 1/2", Classic Wood, Ebony

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.