Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

Title: Goshawk on Snow-covered Pine Bough
Artist: Ohara Koson
Year: Early 20th Century

The artwork "Goshawk on Snow-covered Pine Bough" captures a majestic goshawk perched gracefully on a snow-laden pine bough. The painting exudes a sense of poised tranquility, characteristic of Koson's work. The goshawk, rendered in meticulous detail, stands out against the stark, white backdrop of freshly fallen snow. Its feathers are depicted with intricate strokes, varying from deep black to steely gray, showcasing Koson's deep attention to the textural nuances of the bird's plumage.

The pine bough, with its needles dusted in snow, creates a serene yet vivid environment. The snow is rendered in soft, almost impressionistic touches which contrast beautifully with the precise linearity of the pine needles. This juxtaposition of textures accentuates the delicate balance in nature that Koson so eloquently portrays.

The background of the painting is kept minimal, allowing the viewer to fully appreciate the subject. The understated hues and gentle gradations suggest the subtle light of winter, possibly during twilight. The composition is asymmetrical, adhering to traditional Japanese aesthetics, providing a sense of movement and balance.

Where the Original Painting is Found:

The original painting "Goshawk on Snow-covered Pine Bough" is part of various public and private collections, but a frequent and notable display can be found at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Given the nature of woodblock prints and their production, several versions of the work may exist in different museums and collections around the world.

Biography and Career:

Ohara Koson (1877-1945) was a prominent figure in the shin-hanga (new prints) movement in Japan, which flourished in the early 20th century. This movement sought to revive and modernize traditional ukiyo-e prints, integrating elements of Western realism with Japanese aesthetic principles. Koson's work primarily focused on kachō-ga (bird-and-flower) subjects, bringing a renewed elegance and vitality to this genre through woodblock prints.

Artistic Movements and Contributions:

Koson's work typifies the shin-hanga ethos by combining classical themes with contemporary techniques and sensibilities. His birds and flowers are not mere illustrations; they possess a symbolic depth and are often accompanied by subtle, yet emotionally evocative backgrounds. His meticulous attention to detail, especially in avian subjects, as seen in "Goshawk on Snow-covered Pine Bough," reflects a deep appreciation and understanding of nature.

Noteworthy Details:

- Technique: Koson mastered the woodblock printing technique, collaborating with skilled carvers and printers to produce works that are celebrated for their clarity and precision. The layering of colors and gradations achieved in his prints are particularly noteworthy.

- Cultural Significance: The goshawk is a symbol of strength and resilience in Japanese culture. Its depiction in a snowy setting might evoke themes of endurance and stoicism, providing viewers with a poignant, yet serene insight into the hardships and beauty of winter.

- Popular Appeal: Koson's prints were highly popular both in Japan and abroad. His works were avidly collected in the United States and Europe, contributing to the global appreciation of Japanese printmaking traditions.

In "Goshawk on Snow-covered Pine Bough," Koson's synthesis of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern nuances creates a timeless piece that continues to enchant viewers with its masterful portrayal of nature's quiet grandeur.