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

"Long-Eared Owl in Ginkgo" by Ohara Koson depicts a serene and evocative scene of a solitary long-eared owl perched on a branch of a ginkgo tree. The owl, with its characteristic tufts resembling 'ears,' is rendered with exceptional detail and lifelike precision. Its large, glowing eyes provide a sense of alertness and mystery. The plumage of the owl showcases intricate patterns of browns, grays, and creams, highlighting Koson's extraordinary skill in woodblock printmaking.

The ginkgo tree, with its distinct fan-shaped leaves, is depicted in various shades of yellow and green, suggesting an autumnal setting. The leaves appear delicate and almost ethereal, fluttering gently around the stout and steady presence of the owl. This dynamic juxtaposition between the steadfast owl and the fragile, moving leaves creates a balanced composition that evokes nature's tranquil yet fleeting moments.

Technical Details:

- Medium: Woodblock print
- Dimensions: Varying editions likely exist, but typical dimensions for such prints are around Oban (approximately 15 x 10 inches)
- Date Created: Early 20th century (precise dating unspecified, but generally within the Taisho period or early Showa period)

About Ohara Koson:

Ohara Koson (1877-1945), also known later as Shoson, is a celebrated Japanese artist renowned for his exquisite kachō-e (bird-and-flower) woodblock prints. Koson's work bridges the late Meiji period through the Taisho and into the early Showa periods. He was initially trained in the traditional painting techniques of the Shijo school but found his niche and immense popularity in the realm of woodblock prints.

Koson's attention to detail, coupled with his ability to capture the essence and subtlety of nature, positioned him as a leading figure in the shin-hanga ("new prints") movement. This movement sought to revive traditional ukiyo-e techniques while incorporating modern sensibilities, often appealing to both Japanese and Western collectors.

Significance within Koson's Career:

"Long-Eared Owl in Ginkgo" is exemplary of Koson's masterful ability to depict avian subjects with an acute sense of realism and emotional depth. Throughout his career, he produced numerous prints featuring birds in various natural settings, and this particular print stands out for its poetic balance and detailed accuracy. The combination of the owl, a symbol of wisdom and mystery, with the ginkgo tree, often associated with endurance and longevity, reflects a contemplative and harmonious view of the natural world.

Current Location and Provenance:

As with many woodblock prints by Ohara Koson, specific individual prints such as "Long-Eared Owl in Ginkgo" are found within numerous private collections and esteemed institutions globally. Significant collections of Koson’s work can be found in:
- The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam
- The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
- The Art Institute of Chicago

Precise confirmation of the exact location of this specific print may vary due to the nature of print collections and exhibitions.

With its meticulous detail and serene composition, "Long-Eared Owl in Ginkgo" remains a testament to Koson's enduring legacy in the realm of Japanese woodblock prints, capturing the ephemeral beauty and profound stillness of nature.