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 - Interesting image of a bird perched on the bare branch of a tree as rain sweeps across the gray sky, knocking loose a few leaves that tumble down. Nicely detailed with soft shading on the sky. The first time we've seen this postcard size kacho-e or birds and flowers print by Shoson.

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

Artist - Ohara Shoson (1877 - 1945)

Image Size - 5 1/2" x 3 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. A couple faint spots in margins. Please see photos for details.