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

"Two Peacocks on Tree Branch" is a captivating work that wonderfully captures the grace and elegance of peacocks, a bird long admired for its striking plumage. In this piece, two peacocks perch on a weathered tree branch, set against a muted, subtle backdrop. One bird, with its plumage partially displayed, looks intently downwards, while the other gazes into the distance, its feathers cascading in a series of hypnotic patterns of blue and green.

Koson's remarkable attention to detail is on full display here. The vibrant blues and greens of the peacock's feathers are meticulously rendered, with each quill’s distinct texture and hue vividly apparent. Their iridescent tails, adorned with eye-like patterns, create a sense of motion and life. The tree branch is equally well rendered, with gnarled bark and delicate leaves emphasizing the age and character of the setting. Between the intricate plumage, the elegant composition, and the lifelike portrayal of the birds, this piece exudes a quiet, natural beauty.

Information about the Original Painting and the Artist:

Artist: Ohara Koson (1877-1945) was a prominent Japanese artist, particularly noted for his work in the genre of kacho-ga, which focuses on bird and flower subjects. Koson was active during the tail end of the Meiji era (1868-1912) through to the early Showa era (1926-1989), a period when Japan was undergoing significant transformation and opening to Western influences, which often subtly influenced his work.

Where the Original Painting is Found: The specific location of the original "Two Peacocks on Tree Branch" can vary as many of Koson's works were prints and therefore exist in several collections around the world. Major collections of Japanese art, such as those in the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, The British Museum, or the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, include works by Koson. Additionally, his works are often found in private collections and auction catalogs.

How the Painting Fits into the Artist's Career:
Ohara Koson primarily focused on kacho-ga, translating natural beauty into woodblock prints. Though initially a painter, he later gained wider recognition through printmaking. "Two Peacocks on Tree Branch" exemplifies Koson’s mastery within this genre, characterized by his nuanced use of color, delicate line work, and poetic compositions.

During his career, he was associated with the shin-hanga (new prints) movement, which sought to revive the traditional ukiyo-e art form with modern sensibilities, focusing on natural subjects, landscapes, and beautiful women. His works, including "Two Peacocks on Tree Branch," offer a serene, contemplative view of nature, aligning with the aesthetic values of shin-hanga.

Noteworthy Details:
- Color and Composition: Koson’s use of subtle, harmonious colors in the background highlights the bold, iridescent blues and greens of the peacocks, creating a balanced and aesthetically pleasing composition.
- Texture and Detail: The detailed rendering of the feathers and the tree’s bark showcases Koson’s exceptional skill in capturing texture and minute details, which is characteristic of many of his bird and flower themes.
- Cultural Significance: Peacocks have been symbols of beauty, immortality, and pride in various Asian cultures. By choosing this subject, Koson connects his work with a deep cultural reverence for these majestic birds.
- Artistic Techniques: The use of woodblock printing allowed Koson to produce multiple copies of his work, making his detailed depictions more accessible and durable. His technique includes adept layering of colors and precise carving to achieve intricate details.

Koson's "Two Peacocks on Tree Branch" stands as a testament to his talent and dedication to capturing the delicate beauty of nature, establishing him as a significant figure in the transition from late 19th-century traditional Japanese art to early 20th-century modern interpretations.