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 Women in the Rain" is a captivating woodblock print by the renowned Japanese artist Ohara Koson. This delicate piece captures a moment of graceful endurance amidst a gentle downpour. The central figures are two women clothed in traditional Japanese kimonos, holding umbrellas over their heads to shield themselves from the rain. The women are depicted in profile, their garments rendered in exquisite detail, with intricate patterns illustrating the fine texture of the fabric. The kimonos' flowing lines accentuate the elegance and poise of the women.

The scene is steeped in muted tones, reflecting the soft, misty atmosphere of a rainy day. The use of subdued colors creates a sense of tranquility, typical of Koson's style. The background is minimalist, allowing the figures to stand out prominently. The rain is depicted with fine, almost invisible lines, emphasizing the seamless harmony between the natural and human elements of the scene.

Ohara Koson (1877–1945), also known by his given name Shoson, was a master of the shin-hanga movement in Japan, which reinterpreted traditional ukiyo-e prints for a modern audience. Koson is particularly celebrated for his serene and sensitive depictions of birds, flowers, and gentle scenes of nature and everyday life. "Two Women in the Rain" is a testament to his prowess in capturing fleeting moments with elegance and precision.

Koson's mastery lies in his ability to blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with a fresh, modern sensibility. His works often evoke a sense of peace and stillness, drawing the viewer into a tranquil, almost meditative state. This particular print is a fine example of Koson's ability to render atmospheric conditions and the subtleties of human expressions with great finesse.

While the exact location of the original print "Two Women in the Rain" by Ohara Koson may vary as his works are part of various collections worldwide, it is often found in major museums and private collections specializing in Japanese prints or Asian art. Institutions such as The British Museum in London, The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam hold significant collections of Koson's work. These collections reflect the global appreciation for Koson's artistry and the timeless appeal of his prints.

"Two Women in the Rain" fits seamlessly into Koson's oeuvre, characterized by its delicate beauty and emotional subtlety. It highlights his expertise in capturing the quiet, often overlooked moments of daily life, presenting them with a sense of reverence and grace. This piece, like many of Koson's works, is a bridge between the past and the present, showcasing traditional Japanese techniques while appealing to contemporary tastes.

Koson's talent for portraying the natural world and its fleeting moments has ensured that his works continue to be admired and studied. "Two Women in the Rain" stands as a poignant example of his enduring legacy in the world of fine art.