Koson's bird-and-flower prints are his most numerous and accessible works — he designed ~450 prints total. Common subjects in average condition remain widely available. Quality of impression, color fidelity, and publisher seal (Kokkeido preferred over Watanabe) are the key value drivers.
Two ducks in flight beneath a full moon — a subject that combines Koson's mastery of birds in motion with his skill at nocturnal light effects. Produced before 1912, this print belongs to his early career under the publisher Akiyama Buemon, who was among the first to recognize and develop his talent for kacho-e. The bokashi gradation that renders the moon's glow on water and cloud demonstrates the collaborative skill of publisher and carvers working alongside the artist to achieve atmospheric subtlety.
![Mount Fuji on a Moonlit Night, Kawai Bridge (Tsukiyo no Fuji [Kawaibashi]), from the series "Selection of Views of the Tokaido (Tokaido fukei senshu)" by Kawase Hasui](https://www.artic.edu/iiif/2/d0960668-1e73-339a-b182-fb995a54bff0/full/843,/0/default.jpg)
1947
Color woodblock print; oban
March 1933
Color woodblock print; oban
1919
Color woodblock print
January 1938
Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
A pair of Flying Ducks and Moon was created by Ohara Koson (小原古邨) in before 1912.
A pair of Flying Ducks and Moon uses Bokashi, on woodblock print, ink and color on paper.
A pair of Flying Ducks and Moon was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (before 1912).
A pair of Flying Ducks and Moon depicts moonlight and night scenes.
A pair of Flying Ducks and Moon measures 34.6 × 18.8 cm (Oban format).
