Ohara Shoson - Known primarily for his kacho-e (bird and flower subjects), Shoson produced a number of nature prints in the early 20th century. Early in his life, he studied painting at the Shijo School under the artist Susuki Kason. When Watanabe reopened after the devastating 1923 earthquake, he recruited Japan’s premiere shin-hanga artists to help rebuild the woodblock print business, including Ohara Shoson. Watanabe began publishing Shoson’s prints in 1926. Shoson’s work became quite popular with the Western market, especially in the United States. During his lifetime, Shoson used several different "go" or artist names, including Shoson, Koson, and Hoson. His lovely shin-hanga kacho-e are widely regarded as the best of the genre.

Comments - Beautiful shin hanga nature print of a bee hovering in mid-air next to a wisteria blossom. The flowers are rendered in soft tones of lavender and violet against a pale gray sky. The bold calligraphic brush stroke of the twisting branch at left creates a wonderful contrast to the delicate blossoms. A lovely, early kacho-e design by this master of the genre, and a great choice for a collector. Stamped "Made in Japan" on reverse at bottom edge.

Signature - Koson, with red artist's seal "Koson" "Shoson"
Publisher - Daikokuya

Artist - Ohara Shoson (1877 - 1945)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 7 1/4" + margins

Condition - With excellent color and detail. A few areas of very faint spotting in subject and margins. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.