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 - Terrific image of a cat intently watching goldfish swimming in a glass bowl, waiting for the opportunity to pounce. A small fishing net lies next to a low ceramic planter filled with water, rocks, and grasses. An interesting variant of this popular subject with the background softly shaded from yellow green to orange. A great design, nicely composed.

Signed - Shoson, with red "Shoson" artist's seal
Publisher - Watanabe, 7 mm seal, Heisei seal in margin, later edition from original blocks

Artist - Ohara Shoson (1877 - 1945)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 9 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - Excellent overall with no issues to report.