Owl in Flight and Cherry Blossoms Under Full Moon
Japanese Woodblock Print (Ukiyo-e/Shin-hanga style) • Ohara Koson (also known as Ohara Shoson), 1877-1945.
Style & Movement
Shin-hanga ('New Prints') movement.
Medium & Technique
Polychrome woodblock print (Nishiki-e) on handmade paper, employing 'bokashi' (color gradation) in the background and moon, and fine line cutting for plumage details.
Creation Period
Early 20th Century, specifically circa 1925-1936.
Dimensions & Format
Oban tate-e format, approximately 15 x 10 inches (38 x 26 cm); vertical portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A kacho-ga (bird-and-flower) composition featuring a long-eared owl in mid-flight against a pale night sky. Above, a branch of white cherry blossoms is silhouetted against a luminous full moon. The composition uses a low-horizon perspective to emphasize the owl's dynamic movement.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The image shows clear color retention and fine detail preservation, though there are visible horizontal creases and tonal variations in the paper that suggest age.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500 USD.
Auction Estimate
$600 - $1,200 USD.
Provenance History
Displays the artist's signature 'Shoson' and red seal 'Shoson' in the lower right. Likely published by Watanabe Shozaburo, given the style and period.
Art Historical Significance
Ohara Koson was the most famous kacho-ga artist of the Shin-hanga movement. This work exemplifies the movement's bridge between traditional Ukiyo-e techniques and Western-influenced realism, particularly in the anatomical detail of the owl and the atmospheric lighting.
Notable Features
Distinctive use of 'bokashi' to create the glowing aura around the moon. Fine 'hairline' carving on the owl's face and feathers is a hallmark of high-quality Watanabe workshop production.
Condition Issues
Visible horizontal fold lines/creases across the center and lower third. Slight yellowing of the paper (foxing/toning) consistent with age. Subtle rippling on the right margin.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional flattening by a paper conservator recommended. Should be mounted using acid-free, reversible archival hinges and framed with UV-protective museum glass. Keep in a stable environment with controlled humidity (45-55%).