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 - Handsome sosaku hanga design of two palanquin bearers carrying a passenger alongside a river, led by a man carrying a flaming torch. Orange flames and gray smoke drift across the sky, the mountains in the distance softly rendered in shades of gray. On the opposite bank at right, the windows of houses glow with pale orange light. An intriguing silhouette scene with fine bokashi shading.

Signed - Koson, with red artist's seal "Koson"
Publisher - Kokkeido

Artist - Ohara Shoson (1877 - 1945)

Image Size - 4 3/4" x 14 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Small crease at edge, slight rubbing. Please see photos for details.